SRINAGAR: The Private Schools Association of Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK) has welcomed the J&K Budget 2025-26 presented by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, commending the government’s focus on education and its commitment to socio-economic welfare. PSAJK State President G N Var described the budget as visionary, highlighting key initiatives aimed at strengthening the education sector and improving the overall well-being of the people.
In a statement to the press, Var particularly lauded the establishment of a National Law University in Jammu and Kashmir, calling it a landmark step towards providing quality legal education and empowering students. He noted that the initial allocation of Rs 50 crore for the university demonstrated the government’s serious commitment to higher education.
The PSAJK President also welcomed the significant increase in the education sector’s budget, which now stands at Rs 1,388.97 crore—an increase of Rs 242.75 crore from the previous fiscal year. He said this allocation would enhance educational infrastructure, promote academic excellence, and improve student welfare across the region. The government’s decision to upgrade 40 higher secondary schools into integrated K-12 institutions was another move that Var praised, stating that it would modernise the education system and cater to evolving academic needs.
He also appreciated the government’s emphasis on higher education, particularly the expansion of infrastructure in degree colleges. The addition of 600 polytechnic seats, he said, was a significant measure to boost technical education and vocational training, equipping students with skills for diverse career opportunities.
The PSAJK urged the government to prioritise the private education sector and address the longstanding challenges faced by private schools. Var emphasised that private institutions employ lakhs of people, including teachers, administrative staff, drivers, and security personnel, while also contributing to the economy through taxes, fees, and utility payments. Recognising and supporting private schools, he said, would not only improve educational outcomes but also generate employment and enhance economic stability in the region.
Beyond education, Var also welcomed the budget’s pro-people measures aimed at supporting underprivileged communities. He praised the provision of 200 units of free electricity and 10 kg of free ration per person per month for Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) households as significant steps towards social security. He also appreciated the enhancement of the Marriage Assistance Scheme from Rs 50,000 to Rs 75,000, free public transport for women, and the increase in pensions under the Integrated Social Assistance Scheme (ISSS) and the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP), describing them as progressive initiatives that would uplift vulnerable sections of society.
While welcoming the budget, PSAJK called for efficient implementation of these initiatives to ensure their benefits reach the grassroots level. “Budgetary allocations must translate into on-ground improvements. We look forward to timely execution and monitoring to ensure transparency and accountability,” Var said.
