Question

Which statutory body in India determines the minimum qualifications for teachers at different levels of schooling?

• A. NCERT
• B. CBSE
• C. UGC
• D. NCTE

Hint:

Remember the functions:
• NCTE $\rightarrow$ Teacher education and teacher qualifications.
• NCERT $\rightarrow$ Curriculum and textbooks.
• UGC $\rightarrow$ Universities and higher education.
• CBSE $\rightarrow$ School board examinations.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: The National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) is a statutory body established under the National Council for Teacher Education Act, 1993. It regulates teacher education and prescribes minimum qualifications for teachers in India.
• Recognizes teacher education institutions.
• Prescribes minimum qualifications for school teachers.
• Maintains standards of teacher education across the country.

Step 1: Identify the role of NCTE.
NCTE is responsible for: \[ \boxed{\text{Determining minimum educational and professional qualifications for teachers.}} \] It also lays down norms and standards for teacher education programmes.

Step 2: Differentiate the other organizations.

• NCERT -- Develops curriculum, textbooks and educational research.
• CBSE -- Conducts school examinations and affiliates schools.
• UGC -- Regulates higher education and universities.
• NCTE -- Determines teacher qualifications (Correct).

Step 3: Understand its importance.
To ensure quality education, every teacher must possess the qualifications prescribed by NCTE before being appointed in recognized schools.

Step 4: Final conclusion.
Therefore, the statutory body responsible is: \[ \boxed{\text{National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE)}} \]