Karnataka govt allows teachers to use ‘Tr’ prefix as professional honorific

Teachers across Karnataka can now use “Tr” as a prefix before their names, with the state government issuing an order to formally honor the teaching profession on Teachers’ Day.

Chief Minister D K Shivakumar announced the decision at an event in Kudligi, Vijayanagara district, saying the move recognizes the role teachers play in educating people and contributing to the progress of society.

The prefix is intended as an honorific designation for teachers, similar to the use of “Dr” by doctors and “Prof” by professors. It does not represent an additional academic qualification or confer any new professional authority.

“There are about 4.5 lakh teachers in Karnataka. In society, we see gods in two kinds. One is our parents who give birth to us, and the other is those who guide us in life. It was discussed in the Cabinet meeting. We decided to honor their contribution to society,” he added.

Shivakumar said the government wanted to give formal recognition to teachers for their contribution to the country. He described them as “pillars of the country just like soldiers, farmers, and workers."

The chief minister also highlighted the influence of teachers on professionals in different fields in a post on X.

“Every doctor who heals, engineer who builds, farmer who feeds us, officer who serves, entrepreneur who creates and leader who guides us has a teacher behind them – someone who first recognised their potential and showed them what was possible. 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. It may be only two letters, but it represents a lifetime of service. “Tr.” is more than a title – it is society’s recognition of those who have dedicated their lives to shaping the lives of others. A society that honours its teachers honours its own future.”

The decision was taken after the proposal was discussed in the state Cabinet, according to Shivakumar. Karnataka has approximately 4.5 lakh teachers.

In a separate announcement, Shivakumar said the government is also considering a 7.5% reservation in jobs for students who have studied in rural government schools.

The proposed reservation is intended to provide additional employment opportunities to students from rural government schools. The government is yet to finalize the proposal.