J&K orders audit of books and educational resources in schools, colleges, universities

Ziraat Times Team Report

Srinagar, July 16: The School Education Department and Higher Education Department have issued a new framework mandating academic and content audits of books and educational resources across schools, colleges, universities and public libraries in Jammu & Kashmir.

The move follows recent concerns regarding books available in institutional libraries and the procurement of educational material by educational institutions across the Union Territory.

According to official circulars, all government and recognised private schools, colleges, universities and public libraries have been directed to undertake a comprehensive review of books, journals, reference material, research publications, dissertations, theses, digital repositories and other educational resources, irrespective of when they were procured or introduced.

The government said the exercise is aimed at ensuring that educational resources possess academic merit, factual accuracy, pedagogical relevance and educational value, while remaining consistent with the Constitution of India, existing laws, the National Education Policy and prescribed curricular standards.

Under the framework, institutions have been directed not to procure, prescribe, retain or circulate any publication containing factually inaccurate, misleading, distorted, inflammatory or unlawful content.

The circulars specifically prohibit educational material that promotes, glorifies or justifies terrorism, violent extremism, secessionism, radicalisation or activities considered prejudicial to the sovereignty, unity and integrity of the country.

To implement the initiative, the government has established a multi-tier system of academic and content scrutiny involving committees at institutional, district, directorate, university and departmental levels. The framework provides for periodic reviews, content verification and quality assurance while maintaining the statutory and academic autonomy of universities within applicable laws and University Grants Commission regulations.

The circulars assign responsibilities to Vice Chancellors, college principals, Chief Education Officers, Zonal Education Officers, heads of institutions, librarians and school managements for ensuring compliance with the prescribed procedures.

Officials said institutional heads would be accountable for implementing the framework within stipulated timelines and that any negligence or deviation from the guidelines would be viewed seriously.

The government said the initiative seeks to strengthen academic standards, improve institutional accountability and establish a transparent and uniform mechanism for periodic review of educational resources across Jammu & Kashmir’s educational institutions.