Retired Teachers’ Reunion Held
Kakatpur – 14/03/2024 (Tushar Dixit) – Even in the twilight years of life, memories of a lifetime dedicated to shaping society remain vivid. Retired teachers from the lower secondary level, who had once been devoted to their duties, came together for a heartfelt reunion near the Ganga Devi Temple close to Astarang—a gathering that was both unexpected and emotional. As each one arrived on time, they were visibly moved, reminiscing about old memories and reliving moments from their teaching days.
A formal meeting followed, presided over by Panchanan Swain. In the meeting, the retired teachers discussed various issues including personal and social concerns, along with broader topics related to education, teachers’ welfare, and institutional challenges. Though the state government has extended salary, allowance, and other benefits to employees of both government and private institutions, a discriminatory attitude toward retired teachers—who were once the pillars of these systems—was a source of deep discontent among attendees.
The major issues discussed included reinstating the old pension scheme, providing medical allowances, expanding the coverage of the Biju Swasthya Kalyan Yojana, granting priority-based social security for retired teachers, offering dedicated Mo Bus transport service to the sacred shrine of Maa Mangala, and reserving additional seating for senior citizens.
Retired teachers from Puri, Cuttack, Nimapada, Kakatpur, and Astarang participated in the gathering. Among the key attendees were Prakash Chandra Jena, Bhagyadhar Pradhan, Madhab Biswal, Purna Chandra Mahapatra, Sushant Nayak, Temple Executive Officer Kailash Chandra Das, Shantanu Kumar Parida, and Sadhu Charan Biswal. They all actively took part in the discussions, making it a meaningful and memorable reunion.
