Jammu: Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, Tuesday chaired a meeting to review the ongoing expansion and augmentation plans for the Institutes of Music & Fine Arts associated with the University of Kashmir and the University of Jammu. The meeting was attended by the Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education Department; Vice Chancellors of the two Universities; Divisional Commissioner, Jammu; and other senior officers.
Addressing the meeting Chief Secretary emphasized the vital role of artistic and musical institutes in developing the talents of youth in Jammu and Kashmir. He highlighted the need for these institutes to be modernized with strong infrastructure to create a conducive academic environment for students. A call for a long-term vision was made, directing Vice Chancellors to prepare Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for establishing permanent campuses and planning future expansions. In reviewing the current bachelor-level programs, the Chief Secretary encouraged the introduction of additional courses, including postgraduate options, to meet the evolving demands in music and fine arts. He stressed the importance of academic excellence and urged universities to upgrade faculty in accordance with UGC standards, ensuring these institutes receive equal support and attention as other university departments. The Vice Chancellors provided updates on existing infrastructure, ongoing courses, and student capacities, while also noting challenges related to the lack of adequate land for independent campus development. To address this issue, the Chief Secretary instructed Divisional Commissioners to assist universities in identifying and transferring suitable land parcels promptly, facilitating the timely establishment of permanent campuses for both institutes.
