A face recognition-based biometric attendance system is set to be introduced in all government schools across West Bengal in stages, as announced by state School Education Minister Dipak Barman. Barman also pledged to expedite the long-pending teacher recruitment process in state-run schools. Speaking at an event organized by the BJP’s teachers’ cell at the National Library, he emphasized that the education department has already initiated work on this initiative.
Barman stressed the importance of resolving any differences of opinion on government decisions within the party’s organizational framework rather than through social media or press publications. He confirmed that the implementation of the face recognition-based biometric attendance system in all schools in the state is imminent, although the exact commencement date is yet to be finalized. The minister assured that the government is resolute in its commitment to introduce this system and equip every school with biometric face recognition machines.
In addition to the attendance system, plans for further educational system enhancements are in the pipeline, although specific details are currently undisclosed. Barman also addressed the issue of teacher recruitment, highlighting the government’s focus on the 2016 SLST, the Group-C and Group-D exams of 2025, and the unnecessary repetition of communication channels regarding this matter. He emphasized that decisions regarding teacher recruitment will be made in accordance with the High Court ruling, legal considerations, and the government’s ethical stance.
Barman extended a five-year age relaxation for teaching job applicants and emphasized the government’s commitment to merit-based recruitment without any form of job sale. He urged aspiring teachers to prepare for the upcoming examination, assuring that no job would be sold under the government’s watch. The minister acknowledged the longstanding grievances of teachers regarding transfers and revealed that a transparent transfer process is being devised to provide equal opportunities for all teachers. He requested patience from the teaching community to allow the new government sufficient time to finalize the transfer procedures.
