Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister (CM) Dr Mohan Yadav on Friday reaffirmed his government's commitment to the welfare of guest faculty members, assuring them that every possible effort would be made to safeguard their interests and improve their working conditions.

Addressing the State-Level Guest Faculty Conference held at Ravindra Bhavan in Bhopal on Friday, the Chief Minister urged representatives of the guest faculty community to prepare proposals based on successful models adopted by other states, promising that the government would extend full support in implementing practical reforms.

“Govt stands firmly with guest faculty members”: CM

"We have constituted a committee under the banner of the Bharatiya Mazdoor Sangh. The era of delaying, stalling and diverting issues is over. Bring us proposals based on the best models from across the country through the Guest Faculty Committee. The government will stand firmly with you. Whatever is possible for the welfare of guest faculty, we will certainly do," CM Dr Yadav said.

Teachers shape the nation's future

Shedding light on the significance of educators in nation-building, CM Dr Yadav drew inspiration from Indian mythology and cultural traditions. Referring to the stories of Lord Ram and Lord Krishna, he underlined the pivotal role played by revered teachers such as Sage Vishwamitra, Sage Vashistha and Guru Sandipani in shaping great leaders.

He said the confidence and vision of a teacher determine the future of society, adding that the country's glorious heritage reflects the importance accorded to education and mentorship.

"The confidence of a teacher lays the foundation for courage and self-belief. Great civilisations are built through great teachers," he remarked.

“Guest faculty are not filling vacancies,” claims CM Dr Yadav

Calling guest faculty members the backbone of higher education, the state’s top political leaders said they should never be viewed merely as temporary replacements.

"Guest faculty are not simply filling vacant posts; they are the priests of a sacred temple of learning. The future of the nation is shaped in their classrooms, and their role is invaluable," he said.

The Chief Minister highlighted several initiatives undertaken by his government to strengthen the education sector. He said Madhya Pradesh was the first state to establish PM Excellence Colleges and had also taken the decision to open new universities. The government, he added, continues to prioritise higher and technical education while promoting innovation, compassion and ethical values in the education system.

Describing Madhya Pradesh as one of India's youngest states in terms of population, he noted that the responsibility of educators had become even greater in preparing the next generation.

Government elaborates on welfare measures for guest faculty

CM Dr Yadav said the government had introduced 13 casual leaves and three optional holidays for guest faculty members. Women faculty members have also been granted maternity leave, while employees are allowed one opportunity every year to seek transfer to a nearby institution.

He further informed that 25% reservation has been provided for guest faculty in recruitment to Assistant Professor posts through the Public Service Commission, along with a relaxation of ten years in the upper age limit. According to him, 117 guest faculty members were appointed in 2022, while another 48 appointments were made in 2024.

The Chief Minister asserted that despite administrative hurdles, his government had consistently delivered reforms and remained equally committed to infrastructure development, public services and employee welfare. He also said the state government was expediting long-pending promotions and releasing fresh appointment lists regularly.