A delegation of the Himachal Pradesh University Teachers Welfare Association (HPUTWA), led by Nitin Vyas, met Himachal Pradesh University’s Vice-Chancellor Prof Sat Prakash Bansal to discuss their demands aimed at enhancing teacher welfare and improving working conditions.
The Vice-Chancellor attentively listened to each of the issues presented by the delegation, which spanned financial, operational, and infrastructural aspects.
Among the primary requests was a significant increase in the honorarium for the Heads of Departments and Directors, who currently receive Rs 500. The HPUTWA proposed raising this to Rs 5,000, reflecting the substantial responsibilities these positions entail.
Additionally, the association urged for a revision in travel allowance, suggesting that Assistant and Associate Professors be entitled to TA/DA benefits at par with Professors when undertaking official duties at HPU-affiliated institutions.
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While the university’s recent salary hike for paper evaluation was acknowledged positively, the association demanded a corresponding increase in the invigilation honorarium during exams, proposing a rise from the current Rs 250 to Rs 500 per session.
Recognising the need for a formal review, Vice-Chancellor Prof Bansal established a six-member committee led by himself, including Dean of Studies, the Controller of Examinations, Finance Officer, Dean of Student Welfare and HPUTA representatives. This committee will consolidate these recommendations for the forthcoming Finance Committee meeting.
Housing, infrastructure advancements
Another major point raised by the HPUTWA was the allocation of residential quarters for teachers, which the Vice-Chancellor readily approved, issuing an immediate notification. Furthermore, the HPUTWA strongly advocated for the construction of new residential buildings for faculty members. The Vice-Chancellor directed the Executive Engineer to draft a cost estimation and submit it through Dean Planning to expedite the foundation work.
Responding to calls for improved resources, the Vice-Chancellor approved provisions for furniture and computer equipment for departments such as the University Institute of Technology (UIT), the International Centre for Distance Education and Open Learning (ICDEOL) and other university departments.
Additional provisions and policy requests
The HPUTWA further requested the application of Career Advancement Scheme (CAS) assessments twice a year and appealed for the reinstatement of the MPhil/PhD advance increment policy for teachers appointed post-2014. The association also voiced opposition to perceived government indifference regarding teacher promotions under CAS.
In an official statement, HPUTWA president Nitin Vyas and general secretary Ankush emphasised the association’s commitment to advocating for policies that ensure faculty welfare and uphold academic standards.
