Why Titles Still Matter

The education system in Jammu and Kashmir is struggling under a burden of titles that separate teachers by entry route, not merit. It's time for one cadre, one identity.

- Irshad Ahmad Wani

In staffrooms across Jammu and Kashmir, the divide doesn't begin with disagreement over pedagogy or curriculum. It begins with a label.

"Direct Recruit," "SSRB Appointee,” “ReT,” "Grade Il,” "Third Teacher”.

These titles were once administrative in nature, but they've now become badges of rank in a system where all teachers are supposed to serve the same purpose: to educate.

These designations were never meant to measure talent. But over time, they've become a shorthand for judgment.

Ateacher hired through a particular exam is seen as more competent than one recruited through a government scheme, even if both stand before the same blackboard, teach the same syllabus, and bring the same qualifications.

In the corridors of the education department, this has taken on a deeper meaning.