Pune: The Maharashtra government has revised the student count criteria for the appointment of headmasters in schools, lowering the required number of students from 150 to 100.

The decision comes after widespread opposition to the previous mandate, which set a higher threshold for headmaster appointments. This revision aims to address concerns raised by educators and school administrators across the state.

The School Education Department announced the changes through a government resolution. On March 15, 2024, the department had set the criteria for determining teaching posts in primary, upper primary, and secondary schools based on student enrollment.

Initially, the headmaster's position required a minimum of 150 students, but this sparked discontent among schools, particularly those in rural and smaller communities.

Responding to the feedback, the government has now revised the requirement, reducing it to 100 students for new headmaster appointments and 90 students to retain the post in schools where it is already sanctioned.

This revision holds significant implications for school administrations across the state. If a school’s student count falls below the required number, the headmaster may be reassigned to another school under the same management.

However, if no alternative assignment is available, the headmaster can continue in their current position until retirement or until the student population increases.

In case of vacancy due to retirement or other reasons, the headmaster’s post will be abolished if the school fails to meet the revised criteria.

The revised policy also impacts teacher positions in private aided schools. After the March 2024 ruling, only teaching positions within the basic count will be approved automatically. Any additional positions beyond this base will require special government approval.

This decision marks a return to the previous policy set in 2015, which also required 100 students for the appointment of a headmaster and 90 students to retain the position. The change had been met with opposition when the number was increased to 150, and many argued that smaller schools would be disadvantaged.

Former headmaster Mahendra Ganpule welcomed the decision, stating that the role of the headmaster is crucial for school administration and that every school should have a designated headmaster to ensure smooth operations.