Old Pension Scheme issue will be placed before the Cabinet, says Siddaramaiah

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah assured that, the demand for implementation of Old Pension Scheme (OPS) will be placed before the Cabinet for the further discussion.

Addressing the teachers at the State-level educational convention and golden jubilee celebration organised by the Karnataka State Government Primary School Teachers’ Association on Saturday, he also said that promotions for primary school teachers with graduation will be considered.

He recalled that during his previous tenure as Finance Minister, one lakh teachers were appointed in 5 years. He said that the 6th and 7th Pay Commissions have been implemented, and sincere efforts will be made to fulfill the demands of teachers. He also said that efforts will be made to provide salary hikes.

In his special lecture, writer and thinker Baraguru Ramachandrappa underlined the importance of preserving primary schools at every level, which is the foundation of education.

He further stated that as Karnataka Public Schools (KPS) were opening, there was fear that government schools would be closed. “The Education Minister is saying not even one school will be closed. Let us trust him. But some are saying schools will be closed. Which is true? There must be mutual discussion”.

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar promised that for the construction of the teachers’ association building, a site in Bengaluru would be provided.

“Our government has decided to use ₹8,000 crore to ₹10,000 crore Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) fund for the infrastructure development of rural government schools. Good private schools must adopt government schools and appoint teachers,” he said.