On the occasion of Teachers' Day, 378 teachers were felicitated by the honorable President Shri Pranab Mukherjee with the National Awards to Teachers- 2013.
Introduced in 1958, the objective of the National Award to Teachers was to enhance the prestige of teachers by publicly recognizing the incredible contribution of teachers of exceptional merit. While till 1965 the Scheme covered teachers of Primary, Middle, Secondary and Higher Secondary schools only, from 1965 onwards even teachers of Sanskrit Pathshalas were covered under it. In 1976, even Persian/Arabic teachers of Madrasas run on traditional lines were included in its ambit. Awards have also been allotted for teachers of Primary and Secondary schools in Kendriya Vidyalayas, N.V.S., C.T.S.A., C.I.S.C.E., Sainik Schools and Atomic Energy Education Society.
Besides, 43 awards have been allotted to teachers who work to promote the education of differently-abled children in regular schools by States/UTs and other school systems.
The strength of the teaching community in a State determines the number of awards to be allotted to that State. Each State/U.T. is, however, entitled to at least one Award for the Category of Primary school teachers and one for the Secondary school teachers. The total number of awards presently, stands at 378.
The selection criteria for the award entails a teacher's academic efficiency, desire for improvement in education, genuine interest in and love for children, involvement in social life and reputation enjoyed in the local community.
First and foremost, the District Education Officer recommends the names of some teachers for these awards, based on a teacher's work record. It is further recommended by the District Committee. The State Selection Committee examines the recommendations made by the committee before they are forwarded to the State Government. The State Government ensures that only the faultless antecedents with absolute integrity are put forward for the consideration of the Union Government after being duly signed by the State Education Secretary. The Union Government is the final signing authority. The winner is awarded with a prestigious Certificate of Merit, a Cash Prize of Rs. 25,000/- and a silver medal.
The National Communication Technology (ICT) Award for the years from 2010 to 2013 was also awarded by the President. A total of 41 teachers were awarded with the 'National Information Communication (ICT) Award for School Teachers.
This award aims to accolade the work of those teachers who have enhanced learning by effectively integrating technological innovations into their classroom instruction, thus revamping the school curriculum and subject teaching. Such a type of teaching method encourages students to engage critically with the subject matter and develop an inquisitive and collaborative approach towards learning.
Tags: National Teacher Award
Pranab Mukherjee
National Award To Teacher
Teacher Award
