The education system in Jammu and Kashmir has indeed faced significant challenges over the past three decades due to terrorism. Schools became targets for terrorists, who recognised that education posed a major obstacle to their agenda. The children of the region bore the brunt of this violence, with frequent disruptions to their studies caused by strikes, stone pelting, and encounters. Many schools were deliberately set on fire to keep children illiterate and vulnerable to extremist ideologies. Things have changed now with the positive transformation that has taken place in Jammu and Kashmir over the last three years. The absence of hartals, uninterrupted school classes, and no incidents of stone pelting have created a more conducive environment for students to pursue their education without distress. Scholarships and various forms of financial assistance for deserving and needy students reflect this commitment. Offering free coaching for competitive exams and supporting students at every level are essential steps to empower the youth and enhance their educational opportunities. The impressive results achieved at both the state and national levels demonstrate the positive impact of these initiatives. It’s particularly commendable that Srinagar District has received recognition for its innovative and interactive teaching methods.
One significant development now is the plan to upgrade 7,000 schools. This represents a significant milestone for the education system in the region. Other important initiatives include the introduction of digital classrooms and the establishment of laboratories. Various projects under the Samagra Shiksha programme have been initiated. These efforts collectively represent a meaningful Teachers’ Day gift to the children of Jammu and Kashmir. This transformation in Jammu and Kashmir not only benefits the current generation of students but also holds promise for the region’s overall development and prosperity.