JK Assembly passes Private Universities Bill, 2026 to boost higher education, draw institutional investments

The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly passed the Private Universities Bill, 2026 to boost the higher education sector in the union territory. The bill will pave the way for the establishment and incorporation of private institutions in the region of Jammu and Kashmir, the PTI reported.

Sakeena Itoo, education minister of J-K, on Saturday, moved the Private Universities Bill, 2026 in the J-K assembly and said in the PTI report that the bill has been passed to ensure quality education in higher-institutions and protect the interests of students.

Calling the bill as a “milestone moment” for the youngsters of the Union Territory, chief minister Omar Abdullah said in a report by Greater Kashmir : “The legislation seeks to create avenues for quality education within the Union Territory and reduce the need for students to move outside for higher studies. It is also aimed at attracting reputed institutions to invest in the region.”

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Bill will provide more options to students: JK CM

“The move is part of its broader efforts to improve access to higher education and provide more options to students within Jammu and Kashmir. (KNS),” CM added.

The bill will position the Jammu and Kashmir region in the emerging hub of higher education and academic excellence, Abdullah said.

Recently, the J-K Assembly rejected a Private Member’s resolution for the establishment of Veterinary and Animal Sciences University in Jammu.

In another PTI report, Legislator Narinder Singh Raina, said: "This House urges for the proposal of establishment of a Veterinary and Animal Sciences University in the Jammu region: a strategic imperative for Viksit Bharat @2047".