A recent parliamentary report has raised concerns over severe staffing shortages at two of India's primary educational bodies: the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) and the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).
The findings were presented to the Lok Sabha in the Tenth Report of the Committee on Estimates (2026–27), titled "Budget and Policy Aspects for Providing Affordable and Quality Education in the Country."
Breakdown of Key Vacancies
1. NCERT (Over 50% Posts Vacant)
More than half of the sanctioned positions at NCERT remain unfilled, totaling 1,596 vacancies:
- Ministerial Posts: 916
- Ancillary Positions: 404
- Academic Positions: 145
- School Teaching Staff: 131
2. CBSE (44% Posts Vacant)
- 44% of total sanctioned positions at CBSE are currently vacant.
Why This Matters
The parliamentary panel emphasized that NCERT plays a critical role in:
- Shaping India's national education policy and curriculum.
- Driving the ongoing implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Given the heavy responsibilities placed on both organizations, the committee urged the Ministry of Education to take urgent, concerted steps to fill these open positions and ensure smooth operations across the school education sector.
Source: The Indian Express
