The Central Government has made appointments to 32,114 posts—including 18,757 faculty positions—by May 23, 2026, under a recruitment drive conducted in ‘mission mode’ to fill vacancies in Central Higher Educational Institutions (CHEIs). The government stated that continuous steps are being taken to strengthen educational infrastructure, digital facilities, and the quality of the learning environment, alongside the effective implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This information was provided by the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Sukanta Majumdar, in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.
Continuous drive to fill vacancies
The Minister of State for Education explained that vacancies in Central Higher Educational Institutions arise continuously due to various reasons such as retirements, promotions, resignations, deaths, the establishment of new institutions and projects, and an increase in student enrollment. He noted that the Ministry of Education had requested all central higher educational institutions to launch special drives in ‘mission mode’ to fill pending vacancies in August 2021, September 2022, and October 2025. Under these initiatives, recruitment was carried out for vacant posts across various categories, including Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Other Backward Classes (OBC).
Strengthening infrastructure under NEP 2020
According to the government, the National Education Policy 2020 is being implemented in a phased manner. Emphasis has been placed on strengthening educational infrastructure, particularly in rural and remote areas. Key initiatives in this direction include the construction of new buildings, the addition of classrooms, improved sanitation facilities, barrier-free access for students with disabilities, and the expansion of modern amenities.
Support through PM-SHRI, PM-USHA, and Samagra Shiksha
The Minister stated that schemes such as PM-SHRI, PM-USHA, and Samagra Shiksha are playing a pivotal role in creating safe, inclusive, and modern learning environments. Meanwhile, schemes like PM-POSHAN and PM-VidyaLakshmi are assisting students by providing nutrition and financial aid, thereby helping to boost enrollment and ensure the continuity of their education. Special Emphasis on Expanding Digital Education
The government stated that the DIKSHA platform has been adopted across all 36 states and Union Territories. Additionally, initiatives such as 200 PM e-VIDYA DTH channels, radio services, teacher training under the NISHTHA program, Indian Sign Language content, and ICT-based teaching under Samagra Shiksha are being promoted. To strengthen digital education in rural and remote areas, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas have been equipped with facilities such as smart classrooms, computer labs, laptops, tablets, and internet connectivity.
Increased Investment under Samagra Shiksha
The Ministry of Education reported that continuous financial assistance has been provided to states and Union Territories over the last five years under the Samagra Shiksha scheme to strengthen the physical and technological infrastructure of school education. During the financial years 2021-22 to 2025-26, the Central Government allocated ₹2,19,95,029.42 lakh, while a total expenditure of ₹2,67,89,219.41 lakh—including the state share—was incurred. These funds were utilized for school infrastructure, digital facilities, and the expansion of quality education.
Strengthening the Education System through Digital Platforms
According to the government, modern teaching resources are being made available to students and teachers through digital platforms such as DIKSHA, PM e-VIDYA, e-Pathshala, SATHI, SWAYAM Plus, SWAYAM MOOCs, the NIOS portal, PM e-VIDYA DTH channels, Mukta Vidya Vani radio, the TARA App, the Samagam portal, and the PRASHAST App. These initiatives are also being regularly reviewed to ensure the effective achievement of the goals set by NEP 2020.
