“J&K’s participation in the national forum highlights its desire to actively drive change and translate NEP goals into grassroots outcomes.”
The Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam 2025, held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, brought together education leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the nation to reinforce the vision of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Among the many regions represented, the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir made a particularly impactful presence—demonstrating its deep commitment to the transformative goals laid out in India’s new education roadmap. The event was inaugurated by the Union Minister for Education, who reiterated the Centre’s focus on inclusive, equitable, and innovation-led education. However, it was the participation of officials and students from Jammu and Kashmir that added a regional flavor of achievement and aspiration to the national discourse. Sakeena Itoo, Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education from J&K, led the delegation, accompanied by senior education officials and two young innovators — UT toppers of the INSPIRE MANAK Awards. Their presence signified more than ceremonial participation; it was a declaration of how seriously J&K has embraced the goals of NEP 2020. During her address, the minister lauded the efforts of teachers, institutional heads, and the education department in taking the message of NEP to the grassroots through the innovative “NEP Mela – Paigam.” This mass campaign, held across the Union Territory, mobilized students, educators, and community members alike, fostering a deeper understanding of what NEP 2020 stands for. The testimony of Secretary School Education, Ram Niwas Sharma, reaffirmed that the government’s vision for implementing NEP in J&K is not merely theoretical. His remarks underscored the emphasis on quality, inclusivity, and timely execution — all essential pillars of the new education policy. Director School Education Kashmir, Dr. G. N. Itoo, added further weight to the region’s commitment by highlighting the scale and impact of the NEP Mela. With over 400 events in the Kashmir Valley alone, engaging more than 42,000 students and 3,000+ teachers and heads of institutions, the outreach programme became a living example of NEP 2020 in action.
“As India transforms its education system, Jammu and Kashmir’s model can guide other regions. True change occurs when policies are embraced and implemented with purpose. The Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam 2025 was a pivotal moment, highlighting Jammu and Kashmir’s effective action.”
Cultural events, debates, and discussions during the Mela didn’t just educate—they inspired a generational shift in thinking. J&K’s representation at the national forum also showed that the region is not content with being a passive recipient of central policy. Instead, it has chosen to become an active driver of change, translating the aspirational goals of NEP into tangible, grassroots-level outcomes. The participation of young award-winning students, in particular, symbolizes a hopeful future rooted in innovation, critical thinking, and creativity—values that NEP 2020 strongly advocates. As India progresses towards transforming its education system to meet global standards and local aspirations, the experience and model of Jammu and Kashmir can serve as a beacon of light for other regions. The message is clear: real change happens when policies are not just announced, but are embraced, celebrated, and implemented with purpose. The Akhil Bhartiya Shiksha Samagam 2025 was not just an event—it was a moment of reflection, renewal, and reaffirmation. And Jammu and Kashmir stood out for turning vision into vibrant action.
