Maharashtra Teachers Oppose ‘Aamche Guruji’ Photo Display Mandate

Mumbai, Maharashtra A new directive from the state’s education department mandating that teachers display their photos in government primary schools under the "Aamche Guruji" initiative has ignited a strong backlash. Teachers are now required to set up flex boards outside school principal offices with 6x4-inch photos of themselves, along with their names, qualifications, and subjects taught.

While the initiative aims to foster respect and familiarity between students and teachers, critics, including the Maharashtra State Primary Teachers Committee, argue that it distracts from more pressing concerns, like filling vacant teaching positions. Teachers, frustrated with non-academic duties, are calling on the government to prioritize staffing and instructional time instead.

“This is a symbolic gesture that doesn’t tackle real systemic issues in education,” said Vijay Kombe, general secretary of the Maharashtra State Primary Teachers Committee. Educators are urging the government to reconsider the directive and withdraw the decision.