The Maharashtra government on Monday honoured 111 teachers with the Krantijyoti Savitribai Phule State Teacher Excellence Awards for their pivotal role towards nation-building.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, in a video message, called the work of teachers “inspirational for Maharashtra.” He praised the dedication of educators during the Covid-19 pandemic, noting how they continued teaching using digital tools, mobile devices, laptops, online classes, and WhatsApp groups. Fadnavis also highlighted recent initiatives, including a memorandum of understanding with Cambridge University Press & Assessment India, to introduce world-class training programmes, digital literacy, climate education, life skills, and value-based courses across the state.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar called teachers the state’s brand ambassadors and said, “Teachers should not limit themselves to textbooks alone. Alongside academic learning, they should impart skill-based education, problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and values. This approach will instil confidence in students and help build a strong generation capable of facing competitive challenges.”
The award ceremony was held at NCPA’s Tata Theatre in Mumbai.
The event was attended by Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar, School Education Minister Dadaji Bhuse, Minister of State Dr Pankaj Bhoir, legislators JM Abhyankar, Dnyaneshwar Mhatre, and Manisha Kayande, Principal Secretary Ranjit Singh Deol, and Education Commissioner Sachindra Pratap Singh, along with awardees and their families.
Deputy Chief Minister Pawar emphasised the importance of adapting education to changing times, from literacy and computer skills to the era of artificial intelligence (AI). He said awards increase teachers’ responsibilities and urged them to remain updated and pursue excellence at both national and international levels.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also lauded the contributions made by teachers during the Covid-19 crisis, calling them “beacons guiding society.” He stressed that the award commemorates the legacy of Savitribai Phule, while promoting quality, inclusive, and globally-aligned education across Maharashtra.
Meanwhile, Narwekar said India, a country of youth, will progress globally through skilled manpower, and teachers play a crucial role in shaping this future.
Bhuse announced that from next year, teachers in arts and sports will also be recognised for the award. Districts demonstrating exemplary educational performance will receive prizes of Rs 5 crore, Rs 3 crore, and Rs 2 crore, respectively. Bhuse highlighted that teachers shape students’ futures and are pivotal to societal development.
Dr Bhoir said the state government is implementing new schemes to benefit teachers and students, including expansion of select schools under the PM Shri School Scheme, the Chief Minister’s ‘My School, Beautiful School’ initiative, and collaborations with Cambridge University Press & Assessment India. He also announced increased prize money for students participating in state-level science exhibitions and opportunities for winners to visit institutions like ISRO Bengaluru and NASA.
