Rise of SKUAST-K as a Preferred Institution
A New Chapter in J&K’s Higher Education Landscape
Jammu and Kashmir has built a strong higher education ecosystem with 11 universities (2 central and 9 state universities), IIM, IIT, NIT, 11 medical colleges, 14 engineering colleges, 142 degree colleges, and several research institutes. Within this network, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has emerged as one of the most vibrant institutions, catering to agriculture and allied sciences—animal husbandry, fisheries, forestry, sericulture, and agricultural engineering.
Today, SKUAST-K offers 16 undergraduate, 64 postgraduate, 52 PhD, and 3 diploma programmes to over 5300 students spread across five faculties and 7 colleges. Remarkably, nearly 30% of its students come from outside J&K, a steep rise from just 655 total enrolments in 2010.
While many universities across India face declining admissions due to mismatch between curricula, job markets, and student aspirations, SKUAST-K is bucking the trend. For its 800 undergraduate seats this year, more than 25,000 applications poured in from J&K alone. In addition we have received 450 and 857 applications from NRIs and Other State Category students. With heavy demand from parents and students, university has further expanded its intake capacity. This surge reflects growing student and parent trust in the institution’s quality, relevance, and outcomes.
The Turning Point: Institutional Reform and NEP-2020
The transformation of SKUAST-K began in 2019 with its Institutional Development Plan (IDP), a roadmap aligning education with futuristic skill sets, research priorities, and emerging job markets. This vision found synergy with the National Education Policy (NEP-2020), and SKUAST-K went on to design the first NEP implementation framework in the agriculture sector—later adopted by ICAR’s 6th Deans Committee.
By 2024, SKUAST-K became the first NEP-compliant university in J&K. In just five years, the university’s strong performance in academics, research, innovation, and outreach propelled it from 27th to 3rd best State Agricultural University in India, and 7th among all agricultural institutions, as per the 2025 NIRF rankings.
Why SKUAST-K Stands Out
- World-Class Infrastructure
State-of-the-art labs, tech-enabled classrooms, Centres of Excellence, modern farms, and upgraded student residencies have created an internationally competitive environment.
- Dynamic and Diversified Curriculum
From traditional agriculture to frontier sciences, SKUAST-K has launched India’s first UG programme in AI & ML (with IIT Mandi), alongside new courses in dairy technology, biotechnology, food technology, renewable energy, organic agriculture, and specialised MBAs.
- Flexibility in Learning
The innovative “Degree by Design” model allows students to tailor their curriculum by choosing from mainstream and skill courses, enhancing both learning depth and employability.
- Skill-Centric Education
Nearly100 industry-relevant skill courseshave been integrated into UG curricula, ensuring students graduate with market-ready expertise. - Innovation and Startups
The university hosts dedicated discovery, innovation, and incubation centres, nurturing student-led ideas into commercialised products. With96 IPRs and patents, SKUAST-K leads in innovation among SAUs and across J&K. - International Outlook
Partnerships with 50+ global institutions—including Western Sydney University and Mississippi State University—offer joint programmes, exchange pipelines, and overseas training. More than 200 students and faculty have participated in global academic exchanges.
- Entrepreneurship Ecosystem
Through its SKIIE Centre, SKUAST-K has incubated nearly 75 startups (6 with multi-million turnovers), creating a vibrant entrepreneurial culture in the region.
- Strong Placement Record
Graduates secure roles across research, public service, policy, and industry—locally, nationally, and globally—contributing to development and knowledge leadership.
A University with Global Aspirations
Beyond rankings and programmes, SKUAST-K is positioning itself as India’s first truly global agricultural university. By hosting the International Education Fair, inviting global adjunct faculty, and registering on the Study in India platform, it is attracting students from multiple countries. Plans are also underway to establish satellite campuses of foreign universities in Kashmir, expanding its academic portfolio and international footprint.
Conclusion: A Beacon for Viksit Bharat 2047
The rise of SKUAST-K is more than an institutional success—it reflects J&K’s potential to become a hub of knowledge-driven growth. By aligning with national goals and global trends, the university is creating a generation of next-gen leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs who will drive a sustainable and knowledge-based economy.
As SKUAST-K continues its journey, it is not just shaping the future of education in J&K—it is contributing to the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.
Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai is the
Vice Chancellor of SKUAST-K
Prof Parvaze Ahmad Sofi is Head Division of Genetics and Plant Breeding, SKUAST-K
