J&K Private Universities Act – 2026: Higher Education Dept drafts Rules

Srinagar, Jun 17: The Higher Education Department has drafted the Rules for the Private Universities Act, 2026 and forwarded them to the Finance Department for concurrence.

Sources disclosed to news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the department, in consultation with the Department of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, has prepared the draft rules.

“The draft rules have been sent to the Finance Department for its concurrence since they have financial implications,” they said, adding that the rules have been framed to establish a clear framework for the functioning, accountability, and financial management of private universities.

An official further revealed that once the Finance Department gives its approval, the rules will be formally notified.

In the 2026–27 budget session, the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly passed the Jammu & Kashmir Private Universities Act-2026 . The Act provides a legal framework for establishing and regulating private universities in Jammu & Kashmir.

As per the law, private universities can be set up by registered societies and trusts. Sponsoring bodies must demonstrate financial stability, adequate land and infrastructure, and a clear educational vision.

The law also provides for the establishment of the J&K Private Universities Regulatory Authority, mandated to oversee compliance, conduct inspections, and monitor standards.

The Act further allows foreign higher educational institutions to establish campuses in J&K, subject to approval by the University Grants Commission (UGC)—(KNO)