Karnataka Allows Teachers to Use ‘Tr’ Prefix Before Names From Teachers’ Day 2026
Bengaluru, September 5: The Karnataka government has formally allowed all teachers to use “Tr” (Teacher) as a prefix before their names, introducing the title as a mark of recognition for their contribution to education, society and nation-building.
The decision was notified on Teachers’ Day through Government Order No. EP 216 SLB 2026 dated September 5, 2026. The order states that all teachers may henceforth use “Tr” as a title before their names.
The government said teachers play a crucial role in building and advancing society by imparting knowledge, literacy, scientific and practical information and laying the foundation for students’ intellectual development.
According to the order, teachers also help inculcate values such as good conduct, discipline, honesty and mutual respect, while building confidence among children and preparing them to face challenges and failures. It said teachers encourage children to question without fear and help instil constitutional values.
The government said teachers identify students’ latent talents, guide them in choosing appropriate careers, encourage them after setbacks and promote scientific temper and creativity by helping counter superstition and ignorance.
The order also highlighted teachers’ role in creating responsible citizens with constitutional values, promoting social harmony through equal education irrespective of caste or religion, and passing the country’s culture and traditions to future generations.
It said teachers are behind the development of professionals and public figures across fields, including doctors, engineers, scientists and leaders.
The government noted that Karnataka has around 4.5 lakh teachers and India has more than one crore teachers who shape the minds, character and future of children every day.
“Tr” is intended to represent more than two letters and recognise teachers’ lifetime of service, the order said. The government described the title as a form of social recognition for those who dedicate their lives to shaping the lives of others.
Against this background, the government decided to permit the use of the “Tr” prefix from Teachers’ Day on September 5, 2026, as a mark of respect for teachers and their contribution.
The order was issued in the name of the Governor of Karnataka and signed by S. Prakash, Under Secretary to Government (Secondary), School Education Department.
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