Central Govt Sanctions Rs 85 Crore for J&K’s Academic Infrastructure under PM-USHA Scheme

Jammu & Kashmir's Higher Education Gets Funding to Promote Inclusivity and Excellence

The Central government approved nine projects worth Rs 85 crore for Jammu & Kashmir's universities and colleges under the PM-USHA programme on December 21, 2024. The funds were granted during the third Project Approval Board (PAB) meeting held on December 20. Notably, Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University in Rajouri received Rs 20 crore for infrastructure development. Additionally, Rs 10 crore was allocated for five new girls' hostels in Bandipora, Baramulla, Kulgam, Ramban, and Udhampur to promote gender equity.

Three Government Degree Colleges in Bandipora, Sogam Kupwara, and Nowshera will each receive Rs 5 crore for infrastructure upgrades under PM-USHA, a Centrally Sponsored Scheme aimed at improving higher education infrastructure, curriculum, accreditation, and employability. In line with NEP 2020, the scheme promotes equitable access to quality education, especially for underrepresented groups thus fostering a more inclusive and dynamic higher education system. These recent sanctions are part of a broader initiative to position education as a catalyst for social and economic transformation, addressing regional disparities and equipping students with the skills required for a changing world.

The Higher Education Department of Jammu & Kashmir had submitted a proposal for 47 institutions, totalling Rs 585 crore. With the latest approvals, 18 institutions, including Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, have been sanctioned under PM-USHA in 2024. The total funding now stands at Rs 155 crore, addressing infrastructural and academic needs while promoting gender inclusion and aligning with NEP 2020’s vision for equitable development. NEP 2020 promotes a holistic, multidisciplinary approach to education, focusing on equity, inclusivity, and excellence. PM-USHA plays a key role in achieving this by addressing infrastructural gaps and promoting global-standard reforms. The projects sanctioned for Jammu & Kashmir aim to foster innovation, learning, and employability, ensuring equitable access to quality education.

The J&K Government’s continued commitment is strengthening the region's higher education framework to meet current challenges and future needs, preparing academic institutions for national and global contributions.

Editor’s Note:

Responsible governance refers to the effective, transparent, and accountable management of public affairs and resources by the government. In line with this, the J&K government has framed policies to serve the people and make education accessible for students. The PM-USHA scheme has played a pivotal role in transforming Jammu & Kashmir’s higher education landscape, setting an example of responsible governance. This initiative addressed key issues such as critical infrastructure gaps, gender equity, and alignment with the goals of NEP 2020, resulting in a more inclusive, innovative, and globally competitive education system.

Skoobuzz appreciates the government’s efforts, as this initiative will empower students, reduce regional disparities, and equip the youth with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly dynamic world.