Teachers in Karnataka granted ‘Tr’ prefix akin to ‘Dr’ and ‘Prof’
Bengaluru: School teachers across Karnataka will now be permitted to use the professional prefix 'Tr.' before their names, Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has announced. The move is designed to accord formal societal and professional recognition to educators, bringing their title on par with designations like 'Dr' for doctors, 'Er' for engineers, and 'Prof' for professors.
Unveiled during Teachers' Day celebrations commemorating the birth anniversary of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the decision follows formal Cabinet discussions by the state government.
National building and professional dignity
Addressing a gathering after launching the ‘Praja Seva Abhiyan’ in Kudligi, Vijayanagara district, Chief Minister Shivakumar emphasised that educators perform an indispensable role in shaping society. He noted that professionals across various sectors receive title-based recognition, a courtesy that should naturally extend to the teaching community.
“A teacher builds every person who goes on to build the nation. India's more than one crore teachers, including nearly 4.5 lakh teachers in Karnataka, are shaping the minds, character and future of our children every single day,” Shivakumar posted on Facebook.
Underlining the foundational role of educators across all walks of life, he remarked that behind every doctor, engineer, farmer, public officer, entrepreneur and political leader stands a teacher who nurtured their potential.
“On this Teachers' Day, the Government of Karnataka has decided to honour this invaluable contribution with a distinct mark of respect. From today, teachers of Karnataka can proudly use the prefix 'Tr' before their names,” Shivakumar stated, describing the two-letter title as a symbol of lifelong service and public gratitude.
Cabinet approval and social recognition
Highlighting the moral weight of the profession, Shivakumar noted that teachers and parents hold a uniquely revered place in society.
“Society recognises two sets of people as God-like--parents who give birth to us and teachers who guide us through life. Serving through education is serving the Almighty. Therefore, we have decided to give teachers this title,” the Chief Minister said, describing himself as an “education enthusiast”.
He added that soldiers, workers, farmers and teachers constitute the core pillars of the nation, making it the government's duty to uphold their dignity.
“A society that honours its teachers honours its own future,” Shivakumar added, concluding that the new 'Tr.' designation is a privilege educators have rightfully earned through their dedication.
PTI