BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 19th September 2025: Tripura’s higher education sector is grappling with a shortfall in faculty positions, as revealed by Higher Education Minister Kishor Barman during the opening day of the 13th Legislative Assembly’s eighth session. Responding to a query by CPIM MLA Sudip Sarkar, Barman stated that 1,374 faculty members are required across general, professional, and technical colleges, though the current strength stands at 1,654—comprising regular professors, PGTs, guest lecturers, and part-time staff.
According to Barman: Firstly, general degree colleges (UGC-recognized) need 1,208 professors; currently staffed with 461 regular, 160 PGTs, and 654 guest lecturers, Secondly, professional colleges (NCTE-recognized) require 46 professors; presently have 53 regular, 15 PGTs, and 39 guest lecturers, Thirdly, technical institutions (AICTE-recognized) need 120 professors; currently staffed with 143 regular, 1 PGT, 85 lecturers, and 39 guest lecturers.
The minister’s reply triggered a wave of supplementary questions from opposition leaders. MLA Sarkar urged recruitment of NET, SLET, and PhD-qualified guest lecturers who risk becoming overage. Congress MLA Sudip Roy Barman criticized the exclusion of qualified candidates having NET, SLET and PhD in favor of those with only Master’s degrees, calling it a violation of UGC norms.
Leader of Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury raised concerns over the quality of education, noting that nearly half the faculties are temporary. Chief Whip Kalyani Saha Roy demanded transparency on recruitment practices during the previous Left Front regime.
Minister Barman concluded by affirming that all appointments are being made in accordance with UGC guidelines.
