Srinagar, March 31: The ruling NC MLA Saifullah Mir on Monday came down heavily on the government over the prevailing education system citing that poor and underprivileged students were deprived of quality education in schools.
He also criticised the government for its failure to regulate the fee structure of private schools in Jammu and Kashmir.
He flagged "widening inequality" in the education system of J&K, saying that poor children and those from underprivileged backgrounds were being systematically denied access to quality education.
Speaking in the Legislative Assembly while introducing a private member’s bill, Mir Saifullah sought to make it mandatory for private educational institutions including agriculture, paramedical, law and skill development colleges to reserve a fixed percentage of seats for children belonging to Below Poverty Line (BPL) and Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) families.
However, the proposed legislation faced opposition from the government, which urged the MLA to withdraw the bill.
MLA Trehgam, however, termed it a “serious social concern,” and said the growing disparity between rich and poor was creating “a class within a class,” with economically weaker sections increasingly pushed to the margins of the education system.
"There is no financial burden on the government in this proposal. It is purely a social responsibility that needs to be addressed,” he said.
He said that private educational institutions must be made accountable for ensuring inclusivity.
The MLA alleged that exorbitant and unregulated fee structures in private schools and colleges had effectively shut the doors of quality education for poor families.
“Private institutions are charging fees at their own will. There is no regulation, no control. In many cases, fees in private schools exceed the fee structure of government colleges," he said.
He further pointed out that children from BPL and AAY families were often unable to secure admission in private institutions due to their inability to afford fees, uniforms, books, and transportation.
“A labourer, a poor person, an orphan or a disabled individual simply cannot afford private schooling. This is the harsh reality,” he said.
He said this disparity was directly impacting students’ performance in competitive examinations. “Those who study in private institutions dominate competitive exams, while poor students are left behind due to lack of resources and exposure,” he said.
He highlighted the link between economic barriers and literacy rates and said the inability of poor families to access quality education was a key reason why universal literacy remained elusive.
“If we do not address this issue here in the House, then where will we?” he questioned.
The ruling NC MLA proposed that the government should mandate a 10 to 20 percent reservation for economically weaker sections in all private educational institutions.
"Such a move would not significantly impact these institutions financially. What difference will it make to them if a few poor students are admitted free of cost? But it will make a huge difference in society,” he said.
He further said that even government school teachers and educationists prefer private institutions for their own children.
“No teacher’s or principal’s child studies in a government school. This itself reflects the lack of confidence in the system,” he said.
He also flagged the situation in rural areas, where many families still struggle to send their children to school due to financial constraints.
“They do not have money for books, uniforms, transport or fees. Until this is addressed, inequality will persist,” he added.
he further urged the government, particularly the Chief Minister, to intervene and take corrective measures, warning that failure to act would deepen social divisions and further marginalize the poor population.
"The aim should be to create a level playing field. Otherwise, this divide will only widen,” he said.
Srinagar, Jan 8: Contractual faculty members working in government degree colleges of Jammu and Kashmir Higher Education Department (HED) have expressed strong resentment over what they term as a glaring disparity in salaries, demanding revision of their pay in line with University Grants Commission (UGC) norms and regularisation of their services. The faculty, many of whom hold PhDs and are qualified through NET, SET and JRF, said they have been denied UGC-recommended pay scales despite discharging academic responsibilities equivalent to their regular counterparts. âHundreds of highly qualified scholars have been pushed into silent suffering. For years, we have been assured that our pay revision is under consideration, but nothing has materialised so far,â said Dr Ishfaq Gowhar, a contractual faculty member. Earlier, Director Colleges J&K had acknowledged the legitimacy of the facultyâs demand, stating that while the issue was genuine, its implementation involved significant financial implications due to the large number of contractual appointments. âWe are aware that they deserve salary enhancement, but the number of contractual faculty is huge and it has financial implications,â he earlier said. Dr Gowhar pointed out that contractual lecturers, who form the backbone of the higher education system, continue to work on a fixed monthly honorarium of Rs 28,000, which has remained unchanged for nearly a decade. âThe irony is that a Class IV employee with a Class 10 qualification draws a salary exceeding Rs 50,000, while doctorate-holding teachers engaged in teaching, mentoring and academic research are paid a fraction of that,â he said. He added that institutions such as SKUAST-K, University of Kashmir and Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) have implemented revised UGC pay scales, but the Higher Education Department has failed to extend similar treatment to its contractual faculty. Dr Gowhar said the demand for âequal work, equal payâ gets prominently featured in election campaigns, raising hopes among contractual teachers. âPromises were made and slogans echoed during elections, but once the process ended, our voices were reduced to silence. Even meeting officials now feels impossible,â he said. He said contractual faculty were not seeking privileges but dignity, fairness and recognition for their service. The faculty appealed to the Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the Education Minister to intervene and take concrete steps towards addressing their long-pending demands. âThis issue is not merely about salaries. It is about survival, justice and dignity in the classrooms of Jammu and Kashmir,â he said.
Jammu, Jan 18: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Youth Services & Sports, Information Technology, ARI & Trainings, Satish Sharma Sunday said that the remarkable achievements of Jammu and Kashmirâs youth are a powerful testament to what can be accomplished through fair opportunities, modern infrastructure and unwavering government support. Addressing the gathering during the SRIJAN initiative conference, the Minister stated that the success of young athletes clearly demonstrates that with the right ecosystem in place, the UT youth are capable of overcoming every challenge and competing confidently at national and international platforms. Highlighting the core focus areas of the SRIJAN programme, Satish Sharma said "the initiative is playing a transformative role in strengthening the sports landscape of the Union Territory by expanding grassroots sports infrastructure across Jammu, Kashmir and other regions. This is being done by ensuring transparent, merit-based selections free from any bias; integrating sports with education and skill development; promoting greater participation of girls and enhancing inclusivity and establishing sports as a dignified and sustainable career option with viable livelihood opportunities, he said0. He reaffirmed the governmentâs firm commitment and said that sustained efforts were underway to create international-standard sports facilities, including modern cricket stadiums in Jammu and Srinagar. He also highlighted the strengthening of Khelo India Centres, promotion of traditional sports such as Dangal and enhanced collaboration with the Union Ministry to transform Jammu & Kashmir into a national sports hub. âAs Sports Minister, I assure our athletes that the government stands firmly with them. Our focus is not only on infrastructure creation but also on nurturing talent, discipline and confidence among the youth,â he said. The Minister lauded the determination, resilience and dedication of young sportspersons, describing them as the living legacy of the SRIJAN mission. He urged them to continue training with passion, remain disciplined and dream fearlessly, assuring them of full institutional support at every step of their journey. Satish Sharma expressed hope that the conference would serve as the foundation of a new era where every talented child, from the mountains of Kashmir to the plains of Jammu, is provided an equal opportunity to shine on the global stage. He concluded by reiterating the governmentâs resolve to make sports a powerful vehicle for youth empowerment, social inclusion and regional pride in Jammu and Kashmir. Director General, Youth Services and Sports, Anuradha Gupta and prominent persons from different fields and states along with senior officers of the Youth Services and Sports Department, were also present on the occasion.
Srinagar, Jan 12: The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) will declare the result of class 10th and 12th examination on January 14 of, 2026 (Wednesday), minister for education Sakina Itoo said on Monday. Minister for education Sakina Itoo said the government has decided to declare the result of both the classes-10th and 12th on the same day. "We understand that students have been waiting for the results. So we decided that result of both the classes will be declared on Wednesday (January 16 of 2926)," Sakina Itoo said. She said the meeting of the Result Declaration Committee (RDC) will be convened by the Secretary JKBOE along with the members-Director School Education (DSE) Kashmir and Jammu division besides the joint secretaries as well. "We will give the administrative approval to the result instead of getting approved by the chairman," she said. The announcement comes amid the delay in appointment of chairman JKBOSE as the position is lying vacant for the last one year. "After declaration of the results, we will also appoint the permanent chairman for JKBOSE as well," education minister said. An official from JKBOSE said the class 1oth result will be declared on Wednesday morning followed by the declaration of result of class 12th students in late afternoon on the same day. As per the official figures, 94783 students- 68804 from Kashmir and 25,224 students from winter zone areas of Jammu division besides 660 students from Kargil and 95 from Leh district registered for the class 10th JKBOSE examination this year. Also, the examination for class 11th and 12th students was scheduled from November 19 and November 8 of 2025 respectively. Approximately, 81622 students â 64001 from Jammu and 17621 from winter zone areas of Jammu have registered for class 11th examination while 70117 studentsâ56423 from Kashmir and 13694 from winter zone areas of Jammu have registered for class 12th examination.
Suhail Khan Baramulla, Jan 6: A young aerospace engineer from Sopore in north Kashmirâs Baramulla district is proving that dedication and ambition can propel one to global heights. Munaf-ul-Raquib who holds a B.Tech in Aerospace Engineering, has gained international recognition for his research on black holes and cosmology. Munaf-ul-Raquib revealed that his paper on the thermodynamics of black holes was recently published in the International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR). âAbout a year ago, I conducted research on the gravity of black holes and cosmology, which has now been published in IJSR,â he said. He said that since his research was published in the international journal, he has been receiving opportunities from various countries to participate in research dialogues. Raquib added that in the coming months he is scheduled to participate in international conferences in Paris on April 16 and later in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The Sopore aerospace engineer noted that he is also participating in various conferences across different countries. Speaking about his research, Munaf-ul-Raquib addressed a fundamental paradox in astrophysics: how black holes can appear to violate thermodynamic laws, particularly concerning entropy.âIf we observe a black hole, it seems to contradict thermodynamic principles,â he said. Using the frameworks of Anti-de Sitter space (AdS) and Conformal Field Theory (CFT), Raqeebâs research proposes a theoretical model that reconciles black hole mechanics with thermodynamics. âIn this paper, I have explained how a black hole can function without violating thermodynamic laws,â he said. He described the achievement as both personal and symbolic. âIt is a proud moment for me to represent my state, especially Sopore, on an international platform,â he said. Raqeeb shared that Astrophysics was his childhood dream, and his grandfather encouraged me immensely. "After my grandfather passed away during the Covid-19 pandemic, my parents continued to champion my aspirations. My parents left no stone unturned in helping me pursue my dreams,â he said. He said that his academic path included taking the JEE and later the AME CET entrance exams, through which he secured a seat in aerospace engineering at the Nasik Research Centre. âMy parents not only supported me morally but also created an environment where I could pursue my dreams freely,â he said. He emphasized the role of family in nurturing talent. âJust as my parents supported me, it is the responsibility of all parents to help their children follow their dreams.â âYoung people should avoid wrong practices. They must dream of a beautiful tomorrow but work hard today to make their parents proud,â he further added.
Calls for strong academic ecosystem Srinagar, March 6: President of the Private Schools Association Jammu & Kashmir (PSAJK), Dr. Baba Nazrul Islam Friday extended his heartfelt congratulations to the 17 candidates from J&K and Ladakh who successfully cleared the prestigious Indian Administrative Service (IAS) examination. He termed the achievement as a moment of immense pride for the region and a powerful inspiration for the youth. He said that success of these candidates reflect the immense talent, determination, and intellectual potential present among the students of the region. Nazrul Islam Baba emphasised that educational institutions must work collectively to create a robust academic ecosystem that encourages students to aspire for and excel in national-level competitive examinations like the IAS. He stressed that schools should nurture curiosity, discipline, analytical thinking, and leadership qualities from the early stages of education. âSuch remarkable achievements demonstrate that our youth possess the capability to compete at the highest national platforms," he said. He said a supportive academic environment, mentorship, and access to quality resources need to be kept available so that more students from J&K and Ladakh can prepare for and succeed in prestigious examinations. PSAJK President further highlighted the need to develop benchmark institutions and academic support systems in the region that can guide and mentor students aspiring for civil services and other competitive examinations. "Creating a culture of excellence and competition within educational institutions will help channelize the talent of the youth towards nation-building roles," he said. He urged educators, parents, and policymakers to work in synergy to foster an environment where students feel motivated to pursue ambitious goals and contribute meaningfully to society. âEvery success story from our region becomes a beacon of hope for thousands of young minds. These achievers have shown that with perseverance, dedication, and proper guidance, no dream is beyond reach. Their journey should inspire our students to believe in their abilities and strive for excellence,â he added. PSAJK expressed hope that this achievement will ignite a new wave of aspiration among students across schools in J&K and Ladakh, motivating them to prepare for the countryâs most competitive examinations and play a vital role in shaping the future of the nation.
'Some individuals are falsely claiming to represent parents associations, which is unlawful and contrary to prescribed rules' Srinagar, Apr 17:Â In a latest development, the Fee Fixation and Regulation Committee (FFRC), J&K, has issued strict directions to all private schools to mandatorily allow constitution of Parents Associations in the schools. The latest circular instructions in this regard have been issued by chairman FFRC. "The parents association must be constituted in accordance with the provisions laid down under Rule-7 of the J&K School Education Fixation and Regulation of Fee) Rules, 2010," the fresh circular reads. The FFRC has however warned against the functioning of unauthorised parent bodies of the private schools. "The rules provide a structured mechanism to ensure transparency and accountability in private schools," the circular reads. Committee has made it mandatory for all the schools to form a parents association in a prescribed manner. "It has come to its notice that certain individuals, groups, unions and federations claiming to represent parents are operating outside the statutory framework," FFRC circular reads. The committee has termed such entities as unauthorised saying suc bodies have no legal validity and shall not be recognised by any school or authority in matters related to fee regulation or school administration. "Each parents association must be constituted strictly at the individual school level and should comprise only the parents or guardians of students currently enrolled in that institution," the circular reads. The Committee has further emphasised that no external or collective body formed outside Rule-7 will be entertained. The circular further reads that the duly constituted parents association will serve as the formal platform for engagement between school management and parents, particularly on issues related to fee fixation, grievances and other academic or administrative matters. Chairman FFRC has further asked the management of all the private schools to immediately constitute or reconstitute their parents associations and submit details to the committee without delay. "Schools must maintain proper records of the formation and proceedings of these associations and ensure full cooperation in their functioning," the circular reads. Parents and guardians have been advised to associate only with the recognised parents association of their respective schools and refrain from engaging with any unauthorised external bodies. FFRC has also warned that any deviation from the directions will invite action under the provisions of the J&K School Education Rules, 2010. "Some individuals are falsely claiming to represent parents associations, which is unlawful and contrary to the prescribed rules," the circular reads. Chairman FFRC in a circular has cautioned that continued violations will lead to legal action without further notice. "A complaint in this regard has already been referred to the appropriate investigating agency for necessary action," the circular reads. As per the circular, the fresh instructions "will come into force with immediate effect."
Srinagar, April 10: Vice Chancellor of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Nazir Ahmad Ganai, has been selected for the 2025â2026 Fulbright-Nehru International Education Administrators (FNIEA) Award, according to an announcement by the United States-India Educational Foundation. The selection places Prof Ganai among a group of Indian academic leaders chosen for a high-level engagement with the United Statesâ higher education system under the Fulbright-Nehru program, which is sponsored by the U.S. government. The FNIEA award is aimed at senior-level academic administrators and involves participation in seminars, institutional visits, and meetings with U.S. universities and government agencies to exchange perspectives on higher education systems, partnerships, and academic practices. Under the program, Prof Ganai is expected to engage with institutions in the United States to explore collaboration opportunities and global academic practices. During his tenure, SKUAST-K has expanded international academic linkages, including collaborations with universities such as the University of Guelph in Canada, Western Sydney University, and Murdoch University in Australia. The university has also introduced new academic programs in areas such as artificial intelligence in agriculture, economics, and data sciences, aimed at aligning with emerging trends in the agriculture sector. Speaking on the selection, Prof Ganai said he was honored and described the recognition as a reflection of the universityâs growing engagement in the global academic space. He said he would seek to bring back insights to further strengthen academic standards and collaborations. SKUAST-K has been ranked among leading state agricultural universities in India in recent assessments, reflecting developments in research, academics, and outreach.
Director lauds achievement, calls it pride for Kashmir valley Srinagar, April 6: A PhD graduate from the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar, Dr. Zarak Bhat has joined the University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom, as a Postdoctoral Researcher. Dr. Zarak is the first PhD scholar from the Nanoelectronics Research and Development Group at NIT Srinagar, completed her doctoral studies under the supervision of Dr. Sheikh Aamir Ahsan in the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering. She has been inducted into the APRIL AI Hub at the University of Edinburgh, where her research focuses on integrating artificial intelligence-driven methodologies into electron device design workflows. Her work aims to accelerate optimisation processes, enhance performance prediction, and improve productivity in semiconductor innovation. During her doctoral research, Dr. Zarak worked extensively on power Gallium Nitride (GaN) models. Her contributions, published in leading journals including IEEE Transactions on Electron Devices, played a key role in developing the NITSRI-GaN modeling framework. The research has drawn attention for bridging device-level physics with circuit-level simulations, particularly for next-generation power electronic systems. Her appointment marks a major milestone for both the researcher and the institute, reflecting the growing global recognition of advanced semiconductor research being conducted at NIT Srinagar. Dr. Ahsan, who leads the research group, expressed pride in this achievement, noting that such milestones highlight the groupâs commitment to high-quality industry-relevant research. âIt is always a rewarding experience to see students grow and take on new challenges at leading global institutions,â he said. Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, congratulated Dr. Ahsan and Dr. Zarak. He termed it as a proud moment for the institute and the Kashmir valley. âThis achievement is a matter of immense pride for our institute and the entire Kashmir valley. Dr. Zarakâs selection at a prestigious global institution reflects the high academic standards and research excellence nurtured at NIT Srinagar,â he said. Prof. Kanaujia added that NIT Srinagar is committed to fostering innovation and producing researchers who can contribute meaningfully to cutting-edge fields like semiconductor technology on the global stage.
