THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The strike staged by specialist teachers under the centrally-sponsored Samagra Shiksha project for the past 37 days demanding better pay have come to an end after talks with minister V Sivankutty. It has been agreed that the monthly pay will be raised to Rs 13,400 from 10,000 along with EPF of Rs 1608 (12 percent).

Specialist teachers and part-time staff will be alotted leave and other benefits. Such teachers should work 3 days a week in a maximum of two school and also take part in BRC plan meeting on a Saturday.

The funds will be allowed with three months of retrospective effect. The arrears will be soon paid. Decision on other problems on specialist teachers will be taken within 3 months on basis of public education department secretary's report. Public education principal secretary Mohammad Haneesh, Samagra Shiksha Kerala director Dr Supriya, Specialist Teachers' Association state secretary Ratheesh N, and state president Das P took part in the meeting̣.