Move aims to boost higher education sector & retain local students
Srinagar, April 3: The Jammu & Kashmir Assembly has passed the Jammu & Kashmir Private Universities Bill, 2026, paving the way for the establishment and regulation of private universities in the Union Territory.
The legislation, introduced by Education Minister Sakeena Itoo, seeks to provide a legal framework for setting up private universities while ensuring proper regulation of their functioning, management and academic standards.
According to the Bill, the objective is to ensure quality education and safeguard the interests of students across Jammu & Kashmir.
Speaking in the House, Itoo said the government had taken into account various concerns related to the higher education sector before drafting the legislation. She noted that the move would significantly strengthen the education ecosystem in Jammu & Kashmir.
The minister added that the Bill would help reduce the outflow of students to other states, as many currently leave Jammu & Kashmir to pursue higher education due to limited local options.
During the discussion, legislators Mir Saifullah, Nizam-ud-din Bhat, Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah and Tanvir Sadiq moved amendments to the Bill. However, they later withdrew their proposals following assurances from the Education Minister.
Another amendment moved by legislator Balwant Singh Mankotia was put to vote but was rejected through a voice vote.
The Speaker subsequently put the Bill to vote, and it was passed by the House.
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