Kasaragod: Teachers are facing a financial burden due to unpaid bills for food provided to cadets in National Cadet Corps (NCC) units across schools and colleges in Kerala.

The outstanding amount pertains to food served to cadets following parades, weapons training, and classes from July 2023 to January 2024. During this period, NCC in-charge teachers had to cover these expenses personally. There are 970 associate NCC officers in the state, each facing a liability ranging from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 2.5 lakh. The total liability is estimated to be around Rs 8 crore.

Approximately 40 parades are conducted annually in schools and 35 in colleges. Previously, all dues were settled before March 31. As a consequence of these unpaid dues, no parades were conducted in July 2024. The teachers collectively decided to suspend parades until the arrears are cleared. 

Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the Independence Day parade on August 15. Teachers are struggling to find funds for the food costs associated with these rehearsals, with many students bringing their own meals.

The state hosts 39 battalions, including 26 from the Army, six from the Navy, two from the Air Force, and five girls' battalions. Each battalion consists of up to 30 units, with 88,000 students enrolled in the NCC across the state.