As the deadline for data submission looms, Maharashtra lags behind in the nationwide illiteracy census. Amidst the heavy workload of numerous non-academic responsibilities, such as Aadhaar registration, mid-day meal audits, and out-of-school student surveys, the illiteracy census under the ambitious New India Literacy Programme (NILP) by the Central government faces substantial resistance from 32 teachers’ unions within the state.

Teachers argue that these non-academic tasks encroach upon their primary teaching duties. Nonetheless, the education department insists on their completion, citing a government mandate and a national duty that compels teachers to fulfil them.