• President Showkat Chowdhary Voices Key Demands for Strengthening Education in J&K

SRINAGAR: The JK Unaided Private School Association, led by President Mr. Showkat Chowdhary, extends a warm welcome and heartfelt appreciation to the Honorable Education Minister Miss Sakeena Itoo for her visionary approach to revising the academic session calendar from March to November. This much-needed reform will better align the academic year with the region’s climate and global education standards, enhancing the learning experience for students.President Showkat Chowdhary stated, "We are optimistic about the future of education in Jammu and Kashmir under the leadership of Education Minister Miss Sakeena Itoo. Her commitment to the academic session change is a step in the right direction for the benefit of both students and educators alike.

"However, while lauding this initiative, the Association also takes this opportunity to present the following key demands aimed at improving the overall education landscape in the regionThe Association urges the government to revoke unnecessary No Objection Certificates (NOCs) that create bureaucratic hurdles for private schools. Simplifying these procedures will ensure smoother operations and better focus on the quality of education.

The Association highlights the urgent need to address the substandard quality of textbooks provided by the JK Board. "These books do not meet the current demands of the education sector or the competitive nature of modern exams," said Mr. Chowdhary. He emphasized the importance of providing students with high-quality, comprehensive study materials to better prepare them for the challenges ahead.The Association calls for a more pragmatic approach to school registration renewals.

The current process is cumbersome and time-consuming. We request the renewal of school registrations for either lifetime or a maximum of 10 years to ensure stability in the education system.The Association strongly supports the implementation of the Supreme Court’s judgment in the T.M.A. Pai case, which upheld the autonomy of unaided schools regarding fee fixation and admission policies.

President Chowdhary reiterated that the Fee Fixation Committee must function in accordance with this landmark judgment, ensuring fairness and autonomy for private schools.Mr. Showkat Chowdhary expressed confidence in the newly elected government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the dynamic Education Minister Miss Sakeena Itoo. "Our expectations are high, and we are hopeful that the current government will prioritize the needs of all stakeholders in the private education sector, working together to create a brighter future for students in Jammu and Kashmir."

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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