Srinagar : The University of Kashmir has achieved the prestigious Category-I status from the University Grants Commission (UGC), a recognition that highlights its commitment to academic excellence. This status was granted during the UGC’s 598th meeting on July 6, 2026, and allows the university to enjoy enhanced academic, administrative, and financial autonomy, aligning it with India’s top higher education institutions.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Nilofer Khan expressed her pride in this achievement, emphasizing the collective effort of the university community and the support from key figures in the region’s higher education sector. She noted that this recognition will enable the university to expand academic opportunities, foster research and innovation, and enhance institutional collaborations, particularly with international universities. The Category-I status is a result of the university’s exceptional performance in the NAAC Re-accreditation Cycle (2025), where it achieved an A++ Grade with a CGPA of 3.68, the highest in its history. This status allows the university greater flexibility in introducing new programs, revising curricula, and promoting interdisciplinary education, thereby reinforcing its role as a center of academic excellence and innovation. The recognition also aligns with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, positioning the University of Kashmir among the leading institutions in the country.
