Extension Lecturers’ pay disparity under Education Department lens

The Department of Higher Education (DHE) has flagged glaring disparities in the remuneration being paid to Extension Lecturers across government colleges in the state for several years.

Taking note of the issue, the department has directed principals of all government colleges to furnish detailed information about Extension Lecturers, including their date of engagement, academic qualifications, and current remuneration. A circular in this regard was issued on Monday.

Citing the matter of uniform remuneration, the DHE reminded principals that the proposal of granting Rs 57,700 per month was under consideration. The letter read: “The matter regarding granting remuneration of Rs 57,700 is under active consideration of the department and accordingly, you are requested to provide information regarding the Extension Lecturers working in your colleges, who have acquired their eligibility i.e. NET/PhD after March 4, 2020 and on or before June 30, 2023, in view of the instructions dated 14.12.2023, in the prescribed pro forma.”

However, discrepancies have emerged. According to the DHE, some principals are paying Extension Lecturers Rs 57,700, while others are paying only Rs 35,400, even though the lecturers concerned have obtained the minimum eligibility.

“Further, it has been found that some principals are granting Rs 57,700 per month but not from the date of acquiring eligibility but from some other dates,” the letter added.

Sources said the department has now circulated a consolidated list along with an amended pro forma, directing principals to submit corrected and complete information. It has specifically stressed that colleges must clearly mention the date of acquiring eligibility, which was missing in many earlier submissions.

Confirming the development, Lokesh Balhara, Principal of Pt Neki Ram Sharma Government College, said, “The sought information has already been sent to the head office.”

Haryana Tribune