Shikshamitra Association Raises Concerns Over Cashless Cards, Stipends, and Return to Original Schools

Concerns Over Cashless Card Implementation Highlighted

In Balrampur district, the Adarsh Shikshamitra Welfare Association on Monday submitted a memorandum to the District Basic Education Officer (BSA), drawing immediate attention to pressing issues concerning Shikshamitras. Led by Association President Rakesh Pratap Singh, officials presented detailed, point-wise information on these matters, demanding swift and effective action.

The most prominent concern expressed in the memorandum pertained to the slow progress in the creation of Chief Minister's Cashless Cards. Despite the government setting a deadline of September 5, the implementation speed of this scheme in the district is significantly low. The association alleges that block resource centers are not forwarding applications to the BSA office in a timely manner.

Furthermore, it was complained that even error-free applications are being rejected by the BSA office, preventing many Shikshamitras in the district from obtaining this crucial card.

Stipend Payments and Bank MoU Oversight

To address these issues, the Shikshamitras also referenced the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the State Bank of India (SBI) to ensure better benefits on their stipend accounts. However, the association accused the department of failing to take concrete steps towards transferring Shikshamitras' stipend payment accounts to SBI. This situation is depriving Shikshamitras of expected financial benefits.

Return to Original Schools and Stipend Discrimination

Alongside this, dissatisfaction was expressed over the department's inaction in the process of returning Shikshamitras to their original schools, despite the issuance of a government order. The memorandum also noted that the untimely submission of stipend payment bills from blocks to the BSA office and the Finance and Accounts Officer's office causes unnecessary delays in stipend disbursement, creating financial hardships.

Another serious issue raised was the withholding of salaries/stipends for teachers and Shikshamitras when deficiencies are found during school inspections. While teachers' salaries are reinstated later, the department takes no action to reinstate the stipends of Shikshamitras working in the same school at a meager stipend. This discrimination is causing discontent among Shikshamitras.

Also present on this occasion were General Secretary Jitendra Chaudhary, Shailendra Pratap Singh, Ghanshyam Yadav, and Siddharth Shankar. The association has appealed to the BSA to take immediate cognizance of all these problems and ensure their resolution.