J&K notifies Private Universities Rules, 2026 to boost higher education
The new rules mandate 25 per cent reservation for local residents in admissions and jobs at private universities.
The Jammu and Kashmir government has notified the Private Universities Rules, 2026, to allow national and international higher learning institutions to establish themselves in the Union Territory, according to ThePrint.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said the move would strengthen the higher education sector and create more opportunities for local youth. He noted that the framework aims to attract institutional investment and promote excellence in research and teaching across various disciplines, including medicine, law, and STEM.
Under the new rules, private universities must reserve 25 per cent of seats for J&K domiciles. The regulations also require that 25 per cent of teaching and non-teaching roles be filled by local residents.
The framework includes a requirement for institutions to offer merit-cum-means scholarships to a minimum of 10 per cent of their students. It also prohibits capitation fees and mandates accreditation within five years.
The Jammu and Kashmir Private Universities Regulatory Authority will oversee these institutions. The notification follows Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s assent to the Jammu and Kashmir Private Universities Bill, 2026.
The government expects the initiative to encourage multidisciplinary education and help students access specialised courses without relocating to other cities.