“J&K Needs School-Friendly, Child-Centric Laws & Policies To Deliver Quality Education”: PSA President
PSA Calls For National-Level Education Regulations, Rational Fee Policy & Simplified Regulatory Framework
24/07/2026
Srinagar, July 24 (KIP)-Stressing that meaningful educational reforms must begin with creating an enabling environment for schools, Private Schools Association J&K (PSA) State President Bilal Ahmad Bhat has urged the Jammu & Kashmir Government to introduce school-friendly and student-centric laws and regulations on the pattern of other Indian states, saying that quality education cannot flourish under an excessive regulatory framework.
In a statement issued to the press, PSA President Bilal Bhat said that since Jammu & Kashmir became a Union Territory, there is an even greater need to align its education policies with the best practices followed across the country, where private schools function under transparent, practical and education-oriented regulations rather than unnecessary administrative hurdles.
He said "If the Government genuinely wants quality education, it must first create good policies for schools. School-friendly and student-friendly regulations because when schools function smoothly, children receive better education without disruption".
Bhat observed that private schools in Jammu & Kashmir continue to face numerous procedural challenges that are absent in most other states of the country. He said school managements are compelled to obtain multiple No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and clearances from various departments merely to continue operating, resulting in enormous loss of time and resources.
He remarked "There is hardly any other state in India where schools are burdened with so many departmental NOC’s. Instead of concentrating on academics, innovation and student development, school managements spend years dealing with paperwork and regulatory formalities. Ultimately, it is the students who suffer the most".
Bhat urged the J&K Government to immediately review and simplify the existing regulatory framework so that schools can devote their full attention to improving learning outcomes, educational standards and holistic student development.
Highlighting another major concern, Bilal Bhat said that continuous professional development of teachers remains the foundation of educational excellence, but private school teachers are still largely excluded from structured government teacher training programmes.
He said that the Association has repeatedly raised this issue during the meetings with senior government officials and policy makers, yet no comprehensive policy has been framed despite repeated assurances.
"Teacher training should never be restricted to one section of the education system. Every teacher shaping the future of our children deserves equal opportunities for professional development. We have consistently requested the Government to include private school teachers in all official training programmes, but unfortunately no concrete mechanism has been implemented till date".
Bhat added that strengthening teachers' professional skills would directly improve classroom practices, student performance and overall educational quality across Jammu & Kashmir.
The PSA President also expressed concern over the financial condition of teachers working in private schools, stating that many educators continue to receive salaries that do not correspond with present-day inflation and the enormous responsibilities they shoulder.
He explained that the financial limitations faced by schools are closely linked to the heavy regulatory burden imposed upon them.
He asserted "Private school teachers are among the most dedicated professionals. They work tirelessly to prepare students for board examinations, competitive examinations, NEET, JEE, Civil Services and numerous national-level opportunities. Despite their contribution, many teachers receive salaries that are far below what today's cost of living demands. They deserve better".
PSA President Bilal Bhat said that simplifying regulations would reduce unnecessary administrative expenditure and enable schools to invest more in human resources, particularly by improving teachers' salaries and welfare.
Bhat further advocated for a transparent and scientific fee regulation mechanism linked to prevailing economic conditions and inflation.
He maintained that schools should be allowed reasonable fee revisions through a structured regulatory framework so that institutions can sustain quality education while ensuring fair salaries for teachers and adequate investment in educational infrastructure.