J&K notifies private university rules with 25 per cent local reservation
The new framework provides for reserved seats and jobs for Jammu and Kashmir domiciles in private higher education institutions.
The Jammu and Kashmir government has notified the Private Universities Rules, 2026, which include a 25 per cent reservation for local residents in admissions and employment, according to The Shillong Times.
Under these rules, private universities must reserve a quarter of their seats for students domiciled in the Union Territory. Additionally, 25 per cent of both teaching and non-teaching roles will be set aside for local residents.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah congratulated Education Minister Shamima Firdous on the notification, stating it would strengthen the higher education sector and attract national and international institutions to the region.
The rules require private universities to offer merit-cum-means scholarships to a minimum of 10 per cent of their student intake to assist those from economically weaker backgrounds.
The framework, which follows Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s assent to the Jammu and Kashmir Private Universities Bill, 2026, prohibits capitation fees and mandates accreditation within five years.
Institutions will operate under the supervision of the Jammu and Kashmir Private Universities Regulatory Authority to ensure regulatory oversight and fee regulation.