The 25% reservation mandated under the Right to Education (RTE) Act for children from economically weaker and disadvantaged sections in private unaided schools has yet to be implemented in Jammu and Kashmir. The provision guarantees free entry-level admissions in private schools, with the government reimbursing institutions for the prescribed expenses.
For several years, including the most recent admission cycles, no enrolments have taken place under this quota. The School Education Department has stated that the required rules have not been notified, preventing the Act from operating in full within the Union Territory. Consequently, a large number of eligible children from low-income households continue to remain outside the private education system.
With an elected government now in office, the administrative space to address this gap is clearly available. The Union Territory administration already holds the authority to regulate private schools and ensure compliance. No structural or constitutional change is required to move forward.
Education Minister Sakeena Itoo carries direct responsibility for advancing the process. Early notification of the pending rules would activate the provision. Clear operational steps—such as an online application system, structured support for parents, and scheduled compliance checks—would help ensure transparency and consistent implementation.
Administrative follow-through is equally necessary. Internal monitoring within the department, time-bound reimbursement to schools, and removal of procedural delays would strengthen trust among families and institutions.
Access to inclusive education strengthens social mobility and institutional equity. Prompt administrative action can extend the benefits of the RTE framework to children across Jammu and Kashmir who remain outside its reach. Families across the region continue to await concrete progress.
