Govt Approves Rs 85 Cr for J&K Education Reforms
The higher education in Jammu & Kashmir, the Central Government has sanctioned nine projects worth Rs 85 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA). This initiative, approved during the third Project Approval Board (PAB) meeting on December 20, 2024, underscores the government’s mission to foster inclusivity, gender equity, and academic excellence in the region.
The projects include Rs 20 crore allocated to Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University in Rajouri for infrastructure upgrades. Additionally, five girls’ hostels will be established in Bandipora, Baramulla, Kulgam, Ramban, and Udhampur, each receiving Rs 10 crore. This step aims to provide safe and accessible housing for female students, ensuring gender equity in education. Three government degree colleges in Bandipora, Sogam Kupwara, and Nowshera will receive Rs 5 crore each for infrastructure development, improving facilities for students in underserved areas. These initiatives align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which prioritises equitable access to quality education and envisions a multidisciplinary learning environment. For students like Ayesha Bhat from Bandipora, these changes signify a brighter future. “The new hostel means I can focus on my studies without worrying about daily travel. This step makes education more accessible for girls like me,” she shared. Parents and local communities are equally optimistic, seeing these investments as a way to bridge long-standing regional disparities.
The Higher Education Department of Jammu & Kashmir had proposed a comprehensive plan for 47 institutions with an estimated cost of Rs 585 crore. To date, 18 institutions have been funded under PM-USHA, amounting to Rs 155 crore across three PAB meetings in 2024. These projects reflect a broader vision of leveraging education as a driver of socio-economic transformation. Future plans under PM-USHA include curriculum reform, accreditation upgrades, and employability enhancement to align with global standards. Officials believe these measures will equip students with the skills necessary for the modern workforce. “We are committed to building an education system that anticipates future needs while addressing current challenges,” an official noted. As the region witnesses these transformative developments, residents are hopeful that improved infrastructure and inclusivity will empower students to contribute meaningfully to national and global progress. The focus remains on bridging gaps and preparing a robust education ecosystem for generations to come.
