- Applauds the creation of a national law university in j&k, seeks urgent redressal of the private education sectorâs long-pending issues
SRINAGAR: The Private Schools Association of Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK) extends a warm welcome to the J&K Budget 2025-26 presented by J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. PSAJK State President G.N Var has lauded the government's visionary approach in prioritizing education and introducing several people-friendly initiatives aimed at uplifting the socio-economic landscape of the Jammu & Kashmir.
In a statement to the press, PSAJK President G.N. Var hailed education as the foundation of progress and welcomed the government's commendable move to strengthen the sector. He particularly lauded the establishment of a National Law University, calling it a landmark initiative that will provide quality legal education and empower students from J&K. With an initial allocation of âč50 crore, this step reflects the governmentâs commitment to advancing higher education in the region.
He also appreciated the overall budget allocation of âč1,388.97 crore for the education sectorâan increase of âč242.75 crore from the previous fiscal yearâemphasizing that this major boost will drive transformative improvements in educational infrastructure, foster academic excellence, and enhance student welfare across J&K.
"The government's commitment to upgrading 40 higher secondary schools into integrated K-12 institutions is a welcome move, as it will help create a modernized education system that caters to evolving academic needs," stated G.N. Var.
He also welcomed the government's focus on strengthening higher education, emphasizing that enhancing infrastructure and services in degree colleges will play a crucial role in improving academic standards. "The addition of 600 polytechnic seats to expand technical education opportunities is another significant step, as it will boost vocational training and skill development, preparing students for diverse career paths," he added.
PSAJK also emphasized that the private education sector should be the government's top priority in addressing the genuine grievances faced over the past several years. Private schools in J&K provide employment to lakhs of youths, ranging from peons, teaching and non-teaching staff, drivers, conductors, security guards, administrative personnel, accountants, IT support staff, librarians and other support workers. Also, by paying taxes, board fees, power bills, water bills and other charges to the government, private schools significantly contribute to the economy. Recognizing and supporting the role of private institutions in education will not only enhance learning outcomes but also contribute significantly to the regionâs employment generation and economic stability.
Apart from the education sector, Var also praised the governmentâs pro-people initiatives that will significantly benefit the underprivileged sections of society. He highlighted the provision of 200 units of free electricity and 10 kg of free ration per person per month for Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) households as landmark steps toward social security.
He also appreciated the enhancement of the Marriage Assistance Scheme from âč50,000 to âč75,000, free public transport for women, and the increase in pensions under the Integrated Social Assistance Scheme (ISSS) and National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP), calling them "progressive measures that will uplift vulnerable communities.
While welcoming the budget, PSAJK urged the government to ensure the efficient implementation of these initiatives so that their benefits reach the grassroots level. "Budgetary allocations must translate into on-ground improvements. We look forward to timely execution and monitoring to ensure transparency and accountability," added G.N Var.
The PSAJK reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the J&K government, led by Omar Abdullah, to support education reforms and contribute to the overall development of the region.
