Srinagar, June 6: A delegation of the PEMA Foundation called on the J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, at Lok Bhavan and discussed a range of issues concerning the welfare of artisans, promotion of Kashmir Pashmina, and strengthening of export opportunities for the sector. During the meeting, the delegation apprised the Lieutenant Governor about the Foundation's proposal to organize the Pashmina Artisan Awards 2026 during September/October this year. The Foundation informed that the upcoming edition of the awards is proposed to be dedicated exclusively to women artisans in recognition of their immense contribution to the Kashmir Pashmina industry. The delegation highlighted that women artisans constitute the backbone of the sector and play a crucial role in spinning, weaving, embroidery, and various allied activities that preserve and sustain this centuries-old heritage craft. The delegation conveyed its gratitude for the continued patronage extended by the Lieutenant Governor to the Pashmina Artisan Awards, which were successfully organized in 2023 and 2025 under his esteemed guidance and support. The awards have emerged as an important platform for recognizing excellence among artisans and encouraging younger generations to remain associated with the craft. The PEMA Foundation also submitted suggestions aimed at strengthening the global position of Kashmir Pashmina. The delegation requested the  Lieutenant Governor to advocate with the Government of India for granting handmade Kashmir Pashmina a special recognition as a "Luxury Product of India" under national export promotion initiatives. Such recognition, it was noted, would help position Kashmir Pashmina among the world's most prestigious luxury textile products and create sustainable livelihood opportunities for thousands of artisan families. The delegation further appreciated the Government's efforts in implementing the GI Pashmina Labelling Initiative, which has significantly strengthened the authenticity and credibility of genuine Kashmir Pashmina products in domestic and international markets. While acknowledging the considerable enhancement in testing and certification capacity achieved in recent years, the Foundation requested the establishment of a dedicated facilitation mechanism for verified exporters to ensure timely processing of export consignments without affecting the integrity of the certification process. The members of the delegation also expressed their appreciation for the transformative development initiatives undertaken across Jammu & Kashmir under the leadership of the Lieutenant Governor. As a responsible civil society organization, the PEMA Foundation particularly appreciated the administration's sustained and determined efforts to combat the menace of drug abuse, which has emerged as a major social challenge. The Foundation acknowledged the various awareness campaigns, enforcement measures, and rehabilitation initiatives being implemented to safeguard the future of the youth of Jammu & Kashmir. The Lieutenant Governor gave a patient hearing to the issues and suggestions presented by the delegation and assured continued support for initiatives aimed at artisan welfare, preservation of traditional crafts, and promotion of exports from Jammu & Kashmir. The PEMA Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with all stakeholders to preserve the legacy of Kashmir Pashmina, enhance artisan livelihoods, and strengthen the global presence of this unique heritage craft.

Srinagar/Mumbai, June 5 : In a first-of-its-kind Bollywood venture dedicated to honoring the services and sacrifices of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the official promo of the upcoming film 'DGP Kashmir' was launched during a star-studded ceremony in Mumbai, the filmmakers said. The reality-based film is produced by Vijay Kumar under the banner of his production house, T3S Entertainment. The grand launch event was attended by a galaxy of prominent Bollywood personalities, artists, and film industry veterans, with renowned playback singer Sukhwinder Singh gracing the occasion as the chief guest. Directed by Imtiyaz Bhat, 'DGP Kashmir' features an impressive ensemble cast including Punit Issar, Hussain Khan, Shahid Lateef, Mir Sarwar, Sharib Hashmi, Ashmit Patel, Gavie Chahal, Daisy Shah, Pragya Nayan, Sara Khan, Paridhi Sharma, Rittika Sen, Anushka, Satya Thakur, Ebadat Bhat, Youal, and Sourdeep Kakad. Speaking at the launch, producer Vijay Kumar, owner of T3S Entertainment, shared that he was so deeply moved by the script that he agreed to back the project without any hesitation. "This film will not only highlight the exceptional professionalism of the Jammu and Kashmir Police but will also serve as a profound tribute to those brave jawans who laid down their lives for peace and stability," Kumar said. Director Imtiyaz Bhat emphasized that 'DGP Kashmir' is a unique narrative aimed at introducing the general public to the real-life struggles, challenges, and triumphs of the J&K police force. "We hope this film resonates deeply with the audience and plays a pivotal role in connecting the younger generation with the sacrifices made by our law enforcement heroes," Bhat said. The atmosphere turned emotional when Bhat recounted the production journey and the hurdles faced in bringing the project to fruition. The director became visibly emotional, drawing a silent and respectful response from the gathered audience. Industry insiders and attendees at the event highly praised the film's subject matter, describing it as a positive, unique, and timely cinematic initiative. 'DGP Kashmir' is slated for a theatrical release later this year.

Srinagar, June 2: J&K Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo Tuesday chaired the Governing Body Meeting of the J&K AYUSH Society under the National AYUSH Mission (NAM), during which the State Annual Action Plan (SAAP) 2026-27 was approved for onward submission to the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India. The meeting was attended by Additional Chief Secretary, Finance; Commissioner Secretary, Planning; Commissioner Secretary, Health and Medical Education; Managing Director, National Health Mission; Director, AYUSH; and other senior officers. Emphasizing the growing importance of AYUSH systems in preventive and holistic healthcare, the Chief Secretary called for the formulation of a robust wellness policy in collaboration with private stakeholders. He observed that wellness tourism has emerged as a major attraction across the country and holds immense potential for Jammu and Kashmir, given its globally acclaimed tourist destinations. Drawing examples from states such as Kerala, Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh, he stressed the need to position J&K as a prominent wellness and healthcare destination. The Chief Secretary directed the department to ensure the availability of services under major AYUSH Public Welfare Programmes in every Medical College and District Hospital across the UT. These include the National Programme for Prevention and Management of Osteoarthritis and other Musculoskeletal Disorders, National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS), AYUSH Maternal and Neo-natal Intervention, AYUSH Geriatric Healthcare Services, Healthy Lifestyle through AYUSH for School Children, AYUSH Palliative Services and AYUSH Mobile Medical Units. He stressed the need to substantially enhance outreach and coverage so that the benefits of these programmes reach the maximum number of people. Calling for stronger monitoring mechanisms, Dulloo exhorted upon the Director to undertake regular visits to AYUSH healthcare facilities and educational institutions to assess their functioning and ensure quality service delivery. He also directed the department to establish herbal gardens in government institutions and involve local Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in the processing and value addition of medicinal herbs to generate livelihood opportunities while promoting indigenous medicinal products. The Chief Secretary further stressed expediting faculty recruitment through designated recruiting agencies to strengthen the functioning of AYUSH colleges and educational institutions thereby improving the academic standards there. Speaking on this occasion Additional Chief Secretary, Finance, Shailendra Kumar advised the department to focus on augmenting and consolidating existing facilities so that a wider range of AYUSH services could be delivered under one roof. He observed that optimal utilization of available resources would yield greater results than spreading resources across multiple initiatives with limited impact. Highlighting the challenge posed by substance abuse, the ACS also advocated the integration of AYUSH interventions in rehabilitation efforts for drug abuse victims and urged the department to actively contribute to the ongoing Nasha Mukt Abhiyaan. He underscored the importance of a whole-of-government approach in addressing the issue effectively. Commissioner Secretary, Health and Medical Education, M. Raju, informed the meeting about the roadmap for expansion and strengthening of AYUSH healthcare services, educational institutions and public health interventions across Jammu and Kashmir. He stated that the proposed Annual Action Plan had been formulated following extensive consultations with district-level AYUSH functionaries and heads of AYUSH medical colleges and envisages substantial investments in healthcare infrastructure, human resource development, institutional capacity enhancement and quality service delivery. During the meeting, Director AYUSH, Dr. Ajay Kumar Tikoo, informed that while the Ministry of AYUSH has indicated a tentative resource envelope of ₹58.539 Cr, the UT has proposed a comprehensive action plan amounting to ₹91.997 Cr keeping in view the increasing demand for AYUSH facilities and the satisfactory utilization of funds under previous programmes. He further apprised the Governing Body that the plan includes strengthening 523 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, augmentation of AYUSH units in public health institutions, uninterrupted supply of essential medicines to hospitals and dispensaries, upgradation of existing AYUSH hospitals and dispensaries and accelerated completion of new healthcare facilities in underserved areas. To strengthen governance and implementation of the National AYUSH Mission, the Governing Body also approved the reconstitution of the Executive Committee of the J&K AYUSH Society with representation from the Health and Medical Education Department, National Health Mission, Finance, Planning and other technical stakeholders. The meeting also deliberated on the engagement of manpower sanctioned by the Ministry of AYUSH under various components of the National AYUSH Mission. Reiterating the government's commitment towards strengthening AYUSH systems, the Chief Secretary emphasized the need for enhanced healthcare infrastructure, wider outreach programmes and greater public awareness regarding the benefits of AYUSH therapies and wellness practices, thereby ensuring accessible, affordable and holistic healthcare services for the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

Srinagar, June 2: In a significant humanitarian initiative aimed at supporting vulnerable sections of society, MLA Nagrota Devyani Rana distributed over 500 kitchen kits in collaboration with Orphans In Need NGO among widows from Amb Gharota and Mathwar Blocks of Nagrota Assembly Constituency. The initiative brought much-needed relief to hundreds of deserving families and was widely appreciated by local residents and beneficiaries alike. Speaking on the occasion, MLA Nagrota Devyani Rana praised the dedicated efforts of Orphans in Need for their unwavering commitment towards the welfare of widows, orphans, and economically weaker families. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to the organization for extending timely support to vulnerable households.  “The distribution of kitchen kits is not merely an act of charity but a reflection of compassion, humanity, and social responsibility. Widows often face numerous socio-economic challenges, and such initiatives provide both material support and emotional encouragement. I sincerely appreciate Orphans in Need for reaching out to these deserving families and standing by them in their time of need,” she said. Highlighting the importance of collective social responsibility, the MLA stated that the true strength of a society is reflected in how it treats its most vulnerable members. She noted that organizations like Orphans in Need are playing a vital role in complementing government efforts by supporting those who need assistance the most. “The dedication shown by social organizations towards public welfare deserves the highest appreciation. Collective efforts by NGOs, public representatives, and community leaders can significantly improve the lives of economically weaker sections and help build a more inclusive and compassionate society,” Devyani Rana added.  Reaffirming her commitment to public welfare, she assured the people of Nagrota that every possible effort would continue to be made towards empowering women, widows, orphans, and marginalized communities. Speaking during the programme, Sheikh Reyaz, Managing Director of Orphans in Need J&K, reiterated the organization’s commitment to serving underprivileged sections of society. “Orphans in Need has always believed in extending support to those who require it the most. Widows and economically weaker families often face immense hardships in meeting their daily household needs. Through this initiative, we aim to bring relief and dignity to these families. We are grateful to MLA Nagrota Devyani Rana for her support in making this programme successful. Our organization will continue to work tirelessly for the welfare and empowerment of vulnerable sections across Jammu & Kashmir,” he said. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation from local residents and beneficiaries, who expressed gratitude for the timely assistance and humanitarian support.

Srinagar, June 2: Former JK chief minister and President Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mehbooba Mufti has written to a broad spectrum of political and civil society leaders across Jammu and Kashmir, urging them to come together for a joint and coordinated outreach to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. In her letter, Mufti reached out to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, BJP Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, JKPCC President Tariq Hameed Karra, CPI(M) leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami, People’s Conference Chairman Sajad Gani Lone, MP Engineer Rashid, AAP President Mehraj Malik, PDF Chairman Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen, J&K National Panthers Party President Harsh Dev Singh, Shiv Sena (J&K unit) President Manish Sahni, Kashmiri Pandit Sangharsh Samiti President Sanjay Tickoo, and Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee Chairman Jaspal Singh. Mufti has proposed a united political initiative, urging leaders to set aside differences and jointly advocate for the resumption of meaningful dialogue on Jammu and Kashmir. She emphasized that a collective voice is essential to represent the aspirations, grievances, and concerns of the people of the region at the national level.

Srinagar, June 1: Awami Itihaad Party Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi, while speaking at the Zee Conclave on the theme “Kashmir: Ek Nayi Umeed,” said that restoration of full statehood to Jammu & Kashmir is essential for rebuilding democratic confidence and ensuring accountable governance. He said that people participated in the recent Assembly elections in huge numbers with record-breaking voter turnout, reflecting their faith in democracy and hope for a better future. Inam Un Nabi said that despite such massive public participation, people continue to feel alienated and disappointed as neither has statehood been restored nor has governance improved in a meaningful manner. He said that “Nayi Umeed” for Kashmir cannot remain limited to slogans alone, but must translate into responsive governance, institutional accountability, employment opportunities and restoration of public trust. He emphasized that people want dignity, justice and a system where elected representatives have the authority to genuinely address public issues. Inam Un Nabi further stated that Jammu Kashmir’s youth are aspiring for education, entrepreneurship, innovation & stability and all stakeholders must work towards creating an atmosphere where young people can dream and progress without fear or uncertainty.  Inam Un Nabi added that sustainable peace in Jammu & Kashmir can only emerge through democratic engagement, trust-building and people-centric governance that truly reflects the aspirations of the people.

Srinagar, May 31: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Society Forum (JKCSF) and Pensioners United Front (PUF) has extended their support to the teaching fraternity in view of the recent Supreme Court judgement regarding Teachers Eligibility Test (TET). In a statement issued here, Chairman JKCSF and president  FUF Abdul Qayoom wani expressed solidarity with thousands of teachers across Jammu & Kashmir who are facing uncertainty and anxiety over the ongoing TET issue. Wani said there can be no two opinions that quality education was the fundamental right of every child and the foundation of a progressive society. "JKCSF has always supported every initiative aimed at improving educational standards, strengthening institutions, and ensuring better learning outcomes for students," he said. Wani said the welfare of students and the quality of education must remain our collective priority. He however said the pursuit of quality education cannot come at the cost of fairness, justice, and the dignity of teachers "who have already devoted decades of their lives to the service of the Education Department." He said these teachers were recruited under the rules and policies that were in force at the time of their appointment and have been discharging their duties with sincerity, dedication, and commitment ever since. "For years and, in many cases, decades, these educators have served in difficult circumstances, often in remote and challenging areas, contributing their blood and sweat to the cause of education," Wani said. He said their commitment is reflected in the academic achievements of countless students who today occupy distinguished positions in society, administration, academia, business, and other professions.  "Their contribution to nation-building cannot be overlooked or diminished," he added. Wani added that if the objective was to further improve the quality of education, there are numerous constructive and progressive measures available to execute the initiative on the ground. "Regular training programmes, orientation courses, capacity-building workshops, refresher courses, seminars, and exposure to modern teaching methodologies can be organised to equip teachers with evolving educational requirements and contemporary pedagogical practices," Qayoom Wani said.  He said continuous professional development was a globally accepted approach to enhancing educational standards. "What raises concern is the proposition of imposing new eligibility conditions upon employees who were lawfully appointed years ago and have been serving continuously under existing service conditions," Wani said. He said that altering the rules of employment after individuals have entered service and spent decades discharging their responsibilities raises serious questions of fairness and legal propriety. "The principles laid down by the Supreme Court in numerous judgments have consistently emphasised that the rules of the game cannot ordinarily be changed after the game has begun," he added. Wani said teachers who have faithfully served the department for decades cannot now be compelled to repeatedly prove their worth or sit for examinations merely to secure their livelihood and continue in service. "Such measures risk creating fear, uncertainty, and insecurity among a community that has dedicated its life to educating future generations," he added  Wani said JKCSF firmly believes that J&K government understands the concerns of the teaching fraternity and appreciates the invaluable services rendered by them over the years. "We are confident that the government will stand by its teachers and explore every available legal and administrative avenue to protect their legitimate rights and interests," he said. "We urge the J&K government to present the concerns of the teaching community with full strength before the Supreme Court and to pursue all lawful measures necessary to ensure that justice is done," he added. He said the teaching fraternity deserves support, protection, and a fair resolution of the issue rather than uncertainty regarding their future. JKCSF chairman reiterated that supporting teachers and ensuring quality education are not contradictory objectives. 'Both can and must go hand in hand. A just and balanced approach that safeguards the rights of experienced teachers while simultaneously strengthening educational standards is the need of the hour," he said. Wani said the teaching community has served society with dedication and distinction. "Their experience, commitment, and contribution deserve recognition, respect, and protection," Wani added.

Baramulla, May 31: The first blast for the 240 MW Uri-I Stage-II Hydro Electric Project was successfully carried out on Sunday, marking the beginning of major construction works and a significant milestone for Jammu and Kashmir's power sector. The project, being developed by NHPC Limited in Baramulla district, is estimated to cost ₹2,708.95 crore. The run-of-river scheme will utilize the tail water of the existing Uri-I Hydro Electric Project and is expected to generate around 932.60 million units of clean energy annually. The project will have an installed capacity of 240 MW through two units of 120 MW each and will feature an underground powerhouse on the left bank of the Jhelum River. Officials said the project is expected to strengthen energy security in the region, boost clean power generation, and create substantial employment opportunities during the construction phase.  The successful first blast signals the beginning of heavy civil works for the ambitious hydropower project. The Uri-I Stage-II project, being developed by NHPC on the Jhelum River in Baramulla district, is an extension of the existing Uri-I Hydroelectric Project.

Srinagar, May 31: Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi on Sunday lashed out at Mehbooba Mufti saying that teachers in Jammu and Kashmir do not need "seasonal sympathy tweets" but  deserve consistency, dignity and honesty in public life. He was referring to tweet of former JK chief minister and People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti wherein she accused the National Conference government of its silence over Teachers Eligibility Test (TET). In a tweet, Mehbooba Mufti said thousands of teachers in J&K were face uncertainty, anguish, and the looming threat of termination. "While other states are fighting to protect their teachers by filing review petitions before the Supreme Court on the TET issue our government chose silence despite earlier assurances of support.Teachers deserve advocacy and protection, not indifference at a moment that could determine their livelihood and future," she wrote on X. Reacting to her tweet, Inam Nabi lashed out at Mufti saying that one cannot ignite fear in power and preach compassion in opposition. "Kashmir remembers both the statements and the signatures," he said. He said that Mehbooba Mufti today speaks about “advocacy” and “protection” for teachers as if people have forgotten her own tenure. "The same Mehbooba Mufti, while heading the government, ordered screening tests for nearly 65,000 ReT teachers and questioned their competence, qualifications and credibility," he said. He said today Mufti sheds tears for teachers facing uncertainty, but when she was in power, it was her own government that pushed thousands of teachers into anxiety, humiliation and fear. "What changed now? Opposition benches? Political convenience? Or selective memory? It is astonishing to see those who once treated teachers with suspicion now presenting themselves as their protectors," Inam U Nabi said. "Even Omar Abdullah had then questioned PDP’s move and asked whether the government had similarly screened its own political appointees before rewarding them with positions," he added. Inam Un Nabi, however, urged J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to rise above political differences and protect the teachers of Jammu and Kashmir by immediately filing a review petition before the Supreme Court on the TET issue. “Teachers are the backbone of society. Their livelihoods and dignity cannot be subjected to political silence or administrative indifference. The government must stand with them legally and morally at this critical juncture,” he added.

Leh, May 31: Lieutenant Governor Ladakh UT, Vinai Kumar Saxena has approved a new Excise Policy, introducing major reforms to the regulation and sale of alcoholic beverages, including permitting the retail sale of hard liquor for the first time through licensed vends. The policy has been framed against the backdrop of growing concerns over increasing dependence on narcotics, psychotropic substances and illicit liquor in the region. Officials said the restricted availability of authorised hard liquor had contributed to the rise in consumption of illegal drugs, smuggled alcohol and spurious liquor. According to the administration, the new policy aims to provide consumers with a wider choice of regulated alcoholic beverages, promote a shift from high-alcohol-content products to lower-alcohol-content options, and strengthen oversight of the liquor trade while optimising excise revenue. The reform follows months of consultations with civil society organisations, non-governmental groups, religious bodies, public representatives and government officials. During these discussions, stakeholders raised concerns over increasing drug abuse, particularly among youth, and linked the trend to limited access to legal liquor outlets in the Union Territory. Representatives of the Ladakh Gompa Association and medical experts had also recommended expanding the range of liquor available at authorised outlets as part of efforts to curb substance abuse. In wake of this, the Lieutenant Governor Ladakh directed a review of the existing excise framework and constituted a committee to draft a revised policy. The committee examined issues related to public convenience, prevention of illicit liquor trade, revenue generation, transparency in the allotment of liquor vends, digitisation of licensing processes and strengthening of enforcement mechanisms. A key feature of the new policy is the liberalisation of the existing excise regime, which officials described as restrictive and responsible for creating an “artificial scarcity” of liquor brands and outlets. The administration said the shortage often prompted tourists to carry liquor from outside Ladakh, resulting in revenue losses for the Union Territory. Under the revised policy, the sale of Foreign Liquor and Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) will be permitted through retail vends.  Previously, only beer, wine and ready-to-drink beverages could be sold through such outlets. The policy also rationalises excise duty rates on liquor, beer and wine. In another significant change, guest houses and homestays will now be allowed to retail liquor after obtaining the required licences, a facility earlier restricted to hotels. For the first time, beer bars with microbreweries will also be permitted in Ladakh. To strengthen monitoring and prevent tax evasion, manufacturers and importers will be required to affix Excise Department-approved security holograms on liquor products. The policy further bans the sale of liquor in plastic bottles, allowing only approved glass bottles, PET bottles and tin cans. Officials said the policy is also expected to generate employment, as licence holders will be permitted to hire any person above 21 years of age to assist in liquor-related businesses. The administration has stipulated that new retail liquor vends can only be established after ensuring a minimum distance of 100 metres from religious places, educational institutions, hospitals and public parks, in line with Government of India guidelines. Officials say the policy was a technology-enabled and transparent framework designed to balance public convenience, tourism promotion, revenue generation and regulatory control of the liquor trade.

Govt always acts responsibly, proactively: Sakina Itoo Srinagar, May 30: The minister for education on Saturday said that the J&K government has always acted responsibly and proactively with regard to the Teachers Eligibility Test (TET) issue concerning teachers across Jammu and Kashmir. In a post on X, she said the government has consistently taken up this matter and, "more importantly", followed it up with concrete action. "In the past as well, we have acted to protect the interests of our teachers," she wrote on X. The education minister said the government has already accorded sanction to file a review petition before the Supreme Court while the Department of Law, Justice & Parliamentary Affairs, vide communication dated 26.05.2026, has directed its Standing Counsel to initiate the necessary legal proceedings. "The review petition has been prepared and will be filed before the  Supreme Court in the coming week," she said. "We remain fully committed to safeguarding the interests of our teachers," the post on X reads. Earlier, Former J&K Chief Minister and president Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mehbooba Mufti, on Saturday expressed concern over the uncertainty faced by thousands of teachers in Jammu and Kashmir due to the ongoing Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) issue. In a post on X, Mehbooba said that thousands of teachers in the Union Territory were facing anguish, uncertainty and the looming threat of termination. She alleged that while several states were pursuing review petitions before the Supreme Court to safeguard the interests of affected teachers, the Jammu and Kashmir government had remained silent despite earlier assurances of support. The PDP chief said teachers deserved advocacy and protection at a crucial juncture that could determine their livelihood and future. She urged the authorities to take effective measures to safeguard the interests of the affected teaching community. As already reported, Supreme Court has dismissed a batch of review petitions challenging its earlier verdict making the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) mandatory for in-service teachers, but granted additional time till August 31, 2028 for acquiring the qualification. A bench comprising Justice Dipankar Datta and Justice Manmohan upheld its earlier judgment in Anjuman Ishaat-e-Taleem Trust vs State of Maharashtra, ruling that qualifying the TET was a mandatory eligibility condition for continuation in service as well as for promotions. However, taking note of practical difficulties faced by thousands of teachers across the country, the apex court extended the compliance period from two years to three years by exercising powers under Article 142 of the Constitution. “The qualification has to be obtained by 31st August, 2028 instead of 31st August, 2027, as originally directed,” the court said. The judgment came while deciding a large batch of review petitions filed by various states, teachers’ associations and individual teachers who had challenged the court’s earlier ruling requiring in-service teachers recruited before the enactment of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009 to qualify the TET.

Srinagar, May 30: Former J&K Chief Minister and president Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mehbooba Mufti, on Saturday expressed concern over the uncertainty faced by thousands of teachers in Jammu and Kashmir due to the ongoing Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) issue. In a post on X, Mehbooba said that thousands of teachers in the Union Territory were facing anguish, uncertainty and the looming threat of termination. She alleged that while several states were pursuing review petitions before the Supreme Court to safeguard the interests of affected teachers, the Jammu and Kashmir government had remained silent despite earlier assurances of support. The PDP chief said teachers deserved advocacy and protection at a crucial juncture that could determine their livelihood and future. She urged the authorities to take effective measures to safeguard the interests of the affected teaching community. As already reported, Supreme Court has dismissed a batch of review petitions challenging its earlier verdict making the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) mandatory for in-service teachers, but granted additional time till August 31, 2028 for acquiring the qualification. A bench comprising Justice Dipankar Datta and Justice Manmohan upheld its earlier judgment in Anjuman Ishaat-e-Taleem Trust vs State of Maharashtra, ruling that qualifying the TET was a mandatory eligibility condition for continuation in service as well as for promotions. However, taking note of practical difficulties faced by thousands of teachers across the country, the apex court extended the compliance period from two years to three years by exercising powers under Article 142 of the Constitution. “The qualification has to be obtained by 31st August, 2028 instead of 31st August, 2027, as originally directed,” the court said. The judgment came while deciding a large batch of review petitions filed by various states, teachers’ associations and individual teachers who had challenged the court’s earlier ruling requiring in-service teachers recruited before the enactment of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009 to qualify the TET. The petitioners had argued that the RTE Act and subsequent amendments could not be applied retrospectively to teachers who were appointed before TET was introduced as an essential qualification. They contended that teachers had been recruited under prevailing service rules at the relevant time and imposing TET midway through their careers amounted to changing service conditions retrospectively. Rejecting the arguments, the Supreme Court held that the statutory framework under the RTE Act clearly intended in-service teachers also to acquire prescribed minimum qualifications within a stipulated timeframe. The court observed that the law neither invalidated past appointments nor imposed immediate disqualification, but instead provided sufficient time for teachers to comply with qualification requirements. “Service of teachers cannot come at the cost of educational future of the children,” the court observed, while emphasising that the RTE Act was a child-centric legislation aimed at ensuring quality education. The bench noted that teachers had already received more than 15 years since the implementation of the RTE Act to acquire the TET qualification and said the additional three-year window granted now should be treated as final. “We make it abundantly clear that no further prayer for extension of time shall be entertained,” the court said. At the same time, the apex court acknowledged concerns raised by states that disqualification of large numbers of teachers within a short period could adversely affect school functioning and disrupt children’s education. To address the issue, the court directed states and competent authorities to conduct TET examinations periodically and preferably twice every year with an interval of around six months between examinations. The judgment is expected to impact thousands of in-service teachers across various states who are yet to clear the Teacher Eligibility Test despite continuing in service for years. The court also reiterated that a review petition could not be treated as “an appeal in disguise” unless there was a clear error apparent on the face of the record. “With the aforesaid modification of the order under review, all the petitions stand dismissed,” the bench ruled.