As per case facts, petitioners, primary Hindi teachers appointed between 2001-2012, held diplomas in Hindi teaching which was recognized by the Central Government in 2003. Respondents issued circulars in 2023, ... treating them as untrained and requiring Class 10/12 qualifications and a Diploma in Elementary Education (D.El.Ed) based on the RTE Act, 2009, and Nagaland School Education Service Rules, 2017. Petitioners challenged this, citing their long service, prior qualifications, and a notification extending qualification acquisition till 2027. The question arose whether petitioners could be compelled to produce higher academic qualifications and acquire D.El.Ed before the extended deadline. Finally, the High Court held that while petitioners must acquire prescribed qualifications, they have until 2027 as per the notification. Thus, the impugned circulars, which compelled early compliance, were set aside.