CM Omar Abdullah Hails Passage of J&K Private Universities Bill; Terms it a Milestone for Youth

JAMMU, April 04, 2026: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has lauded the successful passage of the Jammu and Kashmir Private Universities Bill, 2026, in the Legislative Assembly, describing it as a transformative milestone for the region’s youth.

Congratulating Education Minister Sakeena Itoo and various stakeholders, the Chief Minister emphasized that this legislation marks a significant step toward securing a brighter future for students by creating a robust academic infrastructure.

The Bill (L.A. Bill No. 08 of 2026) was passed via a voice vote on the concluding day of the Budget Session after being moved by Minister Itoo, signaling a major shift in the Union Territory’s educational policy.

The Chief Minister highlighted that the primary vision behind the Bill is to establish Jammu and Kashmir as an emerging hub for higher education and academic excellence.

By allowing reputed private institutions to set up campuses within the Union Territory, the government aims to provide high-quality education locally, thereby significantly reducing the necessity for students to migrate to other states for their studies.

Abdullah reiterated that the move reflects a deep-seated commitment to fostering innovation and research, creating a vibrant ecosystem that will not only empower the local youth but also attract global standards of learning to the region.