Bridging The Gap

Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir are over and politicians have made a comeback. Winners along with their families are set to enjoy privileges, even the ones who lost have also become entitled for benefits.

This paradox highlights the privilege that politics brings in J&K, even as larger issues of integration and development remain unresolved. Amid this, a persistent challenge emerges: why does New Delhi, including its premier universities, struggle to attract students from Kashmir?
Politicians who win or lose elections often enjoy state protocols, creating a perception of privilege. While these benefits are seen as part of the system, they often exacerbate the sense of inequality among the denizens.

This discontent has given rise to what can be termed a "grey line" of uprising—a mix of political disillusionment, unkept promises, and a growing sense of exclusion.
While the government has made strides in improving infrastructure and boosting tourism, the deeper issue of social integration remains largely unaddressed.

Education is a key tool for empowerment and integration, yet Kashmiri students face significant barriers when it comes to accessing quality education in the top institutions of country.

A common perception that prevails is that many Kashmiri families cannot afford the high tuition fees and living expenses in metropolitan cities where top ranking educational institutions are located. This economic disparity leaves many talented students unable to pursue their dreams.
The cultural and social factors also play a role. Kashmiri students often feel isolated in other parts of the country due to misconceptions about Kashmir and Kashmiris. This lack of inclusivity further discourages them from venturing out of their home region.

The Government of India (GOI), in collaboration with private universities, needs to take proactive steps to address this gap. Offering scholarships specifically for Kashmiri students would be a significant confidence-building measure.

Scholarships can help bridge the financial gap, enabling deserving students to access quality education without the burden of economic constraints. Moreover, they send a strong message of inclusion and trust, showing that the rest of the country values the aspirations and potential of Kashmiri youth.

Private universities and corporations must also step up. Initiatives such as internships, mentorship programs, and corporate-sponsored scholarships can play a pivotal role in integrating Kashmiri students into the broader academic and professional ecosystem. By doing so, they contribute not only to individual growth but also to the larger goal of national integration.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of Viksit Bharat—a developed India—can only be realized if every region, including Jammu and Kashmir, is an equal participant in the nation’s growth story. Education is the bridge that connects aspirations to opportunities, and Kashmiri students must be given every chance to be a part of this journey.

Integrating Kashmiri students into mainstream educational and research institutions across the country will not only enhance their personal growth but also foster a sense of unity and shared purpose. This integration can dispel misconceptions, build mutual respect, and strengthen the bond between Kashmir and the rest of the country.

The J&K Government has focussed extensively on tourism, film festivals, roadshows, and musical events. These initiatives are beneficial but are not enough. They bring economic benefits and visibility but do little to address the deeper issues of education, employment, and empowerment.

The government must adopt a more holistic approach, where tourism and cultural events are complemented by robust investment in education, skill development, and job creation.
Opening centers of excellence, promoting vocational training, and creating a conducive environment for entrepreneurship in Kashmir can go a long way in addressing the aspirations of its youth.

The private sector also has a significant role to play. Corporate India, with its vast resources and expertise, can contribute to knowledge dissemination and skill development in Kashmir.
During the past few years many education giants have reached Kashmir. These institutions have set up centres in the Valley and are offering offline and online learning platforms to make quality education accessible to Kashmiri students.

The road to realizing Viksit Bharat lies in inclusion and integration. Kashmiri students represent an untapped reservoir of talent and potential that, if nurtured, can contribute immensely to India’s growth. The responsibility lies not just with the government but also with educational institutions, private enterprises, and civil society.

New Delhi must prioritize creating an ecosystem that makes Kashmiri students feel welcome, supported, and valued in the country’s academic and professional spaces. Private universities and corporations must view this as an opportunity to foster national unity through education and knowledge sharing.

The time has come to look beyond the superficial markers of development and address the deeper issues of integration and empowerment. By investing in Kashmiri students, India not only uplifts a region but also strengthens the fabric of its unity and diversity.
An educated and empowered Kashmir is not just a regional success—it is a national triumph. Let us work together to make this vision a reality.

Sheikh Khalid Jehangir writes on Politics, Defence & Strategic affairs and is presently heading International Centre for Peace Studies, New Delhi.