218 JBT appointments delayed as budget lapses, UT awaits PAB nod

Chandigarh: Months after clearing all stages of the recruitment process, candidates shortlisted for 218 junior basic teacher (JBT) posts in government primary schools are still awaiting appointment, with the process now delayed due to budget constraints.The Chandigarh education department initiated the recruitment drive in July 2025 under the Samagra Shiksha scheme to fill 218 JBT posts aimed at addressing teacher shortages at the primary level. The posts were offered on a fixed monthly remuneration basis. The written examination for the posts was conducted in October 2025 and witnessed a heavy response, with over 15,000 candidates appearing for just 218 vacancies. Following declaration of results, shortlisted candidates were called for document verification, which was completed in January this year.However, despite the completion of all formalities nearly three months ago, appointment letters have not been issued so far, leaving selected candidates in a quandary. Candidates said they have been repeatedly approaching the education department for updates but have not received any clear timeline regarding joining. Many said they had been expecting appointments soon after the verification process was completed.Officials indicated that since the recruitment is tied to centrally sponsored funding under Samagra Shiksha, the administration cannot proceed with appointments until funds are approved again in the new financial cycle.The delay has also raised concerns regarding staffing in government primary schools, where recruitment was expected to help improve the pupil-teacher ratio and ease existing shortages. The recruitment process, which began last year, was initially expected to conclude within a few months. With document verification already completed in January, candidates anticipated that appointment letters would follow shortly. However, with the financial year ending and funds lapsing, the process has now been pushed forward without a definite timeline.Officials said the department will move ahead with issuing appointment letters once the required approvals are received in the upcoming Project Approval Board meeting. Until then, the selected candidates continue to wait for clarity on their appointments.BOX- DSE on delay in appointmentsDirector school education Nitish Singla said the appointment process for 218 JBT posts is pending due to financial constraints. "The budget has lapsed. We are awaiting fresh approval in the upcoming Project Approval Board meeting under Samagra Shiksha. Once cleared, appointments will be issued," he said.Get real-time updates and result insights on the CBSE 12 Result 2026.