As the new academic session kicks off in Kashmir, students and parents are facing a significant challenge: a shortage of textbooks published by the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (BOSE). This shortage has sparked concerns among the education community, raising questions about the availability and distribution of essential learning materials. The scarcity of BOSE textbooks has been reported across various districts, including Srinagar, Baramulla, Anantnag, and others. Students, especially those from government schools, are struggling to find the required textbooks for their courses. This situation has been exacerbated by the delay in the distribution of textbooks by the authorities. One of the main reasons cited for this shortage is the delay in the printing and publishing of textbooks by the BOSE. This delay has been attributed to various factors, including logistical challenges, budgetary constraints, and administrative issues. Additionally, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has further disrupted the supply chain, leading to delays in the availability of textbooks. The shortage of BOSE textbooks has raised concerns among parents and students, as it directly impacts the quality of education. Without access to the prescribed textbooks, students may face difficulties in keeping up with their studies, which could ultimately affect their academic performance. In response to the shortage, some schools and educational institutions have resorted to photocopying textbooks or sharing them among students. However, this is not a sustainable solution and may compromise the quality of education. The authorities need to take immediate action to address the shortage of BOSE textbooks and ensure that all students have access to the required learning materials. This includes expediting the printing and distribution process, as well as exploring alternative methods of providing textbooks to students, such as digital copies or e-books. Furthermore, there is a need to streamline the process of textbook procurement and distribution to prevent similar shortages in the future. This could involve better planning, coordination, and allocation of resources to ensure timely availability of textbooks for all students. The shortage of BOSE textbooks in Kashmir markets as the new academic session begins is a cause for concern. It highlights the need for better planning and management of educational resources to ensure that students have access to quality education. Immediate action is required to address this issue and prevent similar shortages in the future.
