Seats, jobs reserved; 10% students to get scholarships
JAMMU, NOVEMBER 7: Private universities in Jammu and Kashmir will have to reserve at least 25 per cent of their student admissions and teaching and non-teaching jobs for local residents under the Private Universities Rules, 2026, notified by the J&K Government.
The mandatory quota is aimed at ensuring that the entry of private educational institutions translates into direct educational and employment opportunities for the Union Territory’s youth.
The rules also require private universities to offer merit-cum-means scholarships to at least 10 per cent of their student intake, providing financial assistance to students from economically weaker backgrounds.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday congratulated Education Minister Shamim Firdous on the notification, describing it as a significant step towards strengthening higher education and expanding opportunities for local youth.
The new framework provides for simplified approval procedures, including preliminary scrutiny of applications within 30 days, while placing private universities under the regulatory supervision of the Jammu and Kashmir Private Universities Regulatory Authority.
The rules also prohibit capitation fees and provide for monitoring of admissions, fee structures and academic standards. Institutions will be required to secure accreditation within five years.
Violations, including irregularities in admissions, excess fee collection, issuance of invalid degrees and deficiencies in faculty or infrastructure, will attract penalties.
The government expects the framework to attract reputed national and international institutions, encourage investment and create employment opportunities while expanding access to specialised courses within Jammu and Kashmir.
The notification follows Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s assent to the Jammu and Kashmir Private Universities Bill, 2026, passed during the Budget Session of the Legislative Assembly.
Omar also acknowledged the contribution of Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo, who held the Education portfolio when the Bill was passed.
