Bhubaneswar: Odisha govt has announced plans to recruit retired college teachers with National Service Scheme (NSS) experience to oversee plantation initiatives across the state. The higher education department took the decision to leverage the expertise of former educators in environmental conservation efforts.
To enhance green cover, the department’s deputy secretary, Ramesh Chandra Behera, issued a comprehensive directive to all degree college principals in the state. The circular instructs them to disseminate information about this opportunity among eligible retired faculty members, with applications being accepted until April 30 this year.
The initiative comes with specific eligibility criteria designed to ensure qualified oversight of plantation activities. Candidates must be under 65 years of age and should have completed NSS orientation during their teaching career. Additionally, prospective monitors must demonstrate practical experience in community service, organising a minimum of two special camps during their tenure as NSS programme officers.
While the exact remuneration package will be determined by the department, this engagement offers retired educators an opportunity to continue contributing to social and environmental causes. The programme aims to utilise their extensive experience in organising and managing student-led community initiatives, particularly in environmental conservation.
“The initiative is expected to strengthen the state’s green initiatives by bringing in seasoned professionals who understand both the academic and practical aspects of environmental conservation,” said a higher education department official.