As Kashmir moves through the summer months, the window for major road repair and macadamisation is rapidly narrowing. Every year, the same cycle repeats itself—roads remain dug up, damaged, or neglected during the warmer months, only for authorities to rush incomplete patchwork repairs as winter approaches. This pattern must end. The time to act is now. Road infrastructure is not a luxury; it is a basic necessity that directly affects daily life, public safety, and economic activity. Across Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in urban centers and rural belts alike, many roads remain in poor condition. Potholes, broken surfaces, uneven patches, and waterlogged stretches have become common sights. These conditions cause immense inconvenience to commuters, increase vehicle maintenance costs, and pose serious risks to pedestrians. The problem becomes significantly worse during winter. Snowfall, frost, and constant moisture weaken already damaged roads, turning minor cracks into major structural failures. Once roads are exposed to freezing temperatures, repairs become difficult, expensive, and in many cases nearly impossible until spring. That is why delaying macadamisation until the last moment is not merely inefficient—it is costly and avoidable. Authorities must recognize that road preparation for winter is a matter of urgency, not routine administration. Proper macadamisation requires planning, weather suitability, quality materials, and adequate execution time. Starting late means compromising on quality. When roads are macadamised in haste, the result is often short-lived. Within weeks, fresh surfaces begin to peel away, exposing the same old damage underneath. In many areas, residents have repeatedly raised concerns over deteriorating road conditions. Complaints from commuters, transport operators, students, and shopkeepers continue to grow. Roads leading to schools, hospitals, markets, and residential localities deserve immediate attention. Poor roads affect access to healthcare, delay emergency response, and disrupt business operations. In rural areas, damaged roads can isolate entire communities during harsh weather. The economic cost of bad roads is equally significant. Transport delays increase fuel consumption and logistics expenses. Public transport suffers. Small businesses dependent on smooth movement of goods and customers bear the burden. Tourism, one of Kashmir’s most vital economic sectors, also depends heavily on infrastructure. Visitors form impressions not only from scenic beauty but also from connectivity and ease of travel. Poor roads undermine that experience.

“The Government must immediately act on its infrastructure commitments by starting road macadamisation while weather conditions and machinery are favorable. Beginning work now will strengthen roads against winter stress and prevent the annual seasonal crisis. Delaying action will result in avoidable hardship for citizens, making timely summer planning essential for safe winter roads.”

Macadamisation should not be limited to selective VIP routes or main highways. Inner roads, link roads, village roads, and neglected urban lanes need equal attention. Development must be inclusive. Every citizen deserves safe and reliable roads regardless of location. At the same time, accountability is essential. Road projects often suffer due to delays in tendering, poor coordination between departments, and lack of monitoring. In some cases, newly laid roads are dug up again for drainage, water supply, or cable works because planning was absent. Such inefficiency wastes public money and frustrates residents. Inter-departmental coordination must improve so that all underground utility works are completed before macadamisation begins. Quality control must also remain a top priority. Contractors should be held accountable for poor workmanship. Engineers and supervising officials must ensure that standards are strictly followed. Public funds allocated for infrastructure should deliver durable results, not temporary fixes. The Government has repeatedly emphasized infrastructure development and improved public services. Now is the moment to translate those commitments into visible action on the ground. Weather conditions are currently favorable, machinery is available, and there is still time to complete substantial work before winter sets in. This is a crucial opportunity. If macadamisation begins now, roads can be strengthened to withstand winter stress. If delayed further, authorities risk repeating the same avoidable crisis that citizens endure every year. The message is simple and urgent: start macadamisation of roads now—before it becomes too late. Timely action today can prevent hardship tomorrow. Safe roads in winter begin with responsible planning in summer.

”The suspension of a senior cardiologist at Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag over alleged irregularities in cardiac procedures under the Ayushman Bharat PMJAY-SEHAT scheme has once again raised serious questions about accountability, transparency, and ethical practices in Jammu and Kashmir’s healthcare system. While the inquiry is still underway and due process must be allowed to take its course, the case has highlighted systemic concerns that cannot be ignored. Healthcare is one of the most sensitive sectors in any society because it directly deals with human life. Patients and their families place immense trust in doctors, hospitals, and government health schemes, believing that treatment decisions are made purely in their best medical interest. When allegations emerge that medical procedures may have been manipulated for financial gain or administrative advantage, that trust suffers a serious blow. The case involving the alleged misuse of cardiac procedure claims under the PMJAY-SEHAT scheme is particularly troubling because the scheme itself was designed to provide financial protection to vulnerable families. Ayushman Bharat and SEHAT were launched to ensure that quality healthcare reaches even the poorest households without pushing them into financial distress. Any misuse of such welfare-oriented schemes not only impacts government resources but also undermines the very purpose for which these programmes exist. The reported spike in Left Bundle Branch Area Pacing (LBBAP) claims in December 2025 appears to have triggered the red flags. If the allegations are proven, it would suggest a troubling gap in oversight mechanisms. The fact that advanced procedures were allegedly procured through private vendors while being claimed under a different package raises questions not just about individual conduct but also about institutional monitoring. How were such claims processed without timely scrutiny? Were there no internal audit systems to detect anomalies earlier? These questions deserve clear answers. At the same time, it is important not to reduce this issue to a single individual alone. Often, irregularities in public institutions reveal broader structural weaknesses. Hospitals dealing with high patient loads and limited resources may sometimes operate with inadequate administrative checks. In such environments, gaps in billing, procurement, and claim verification can become breeding grounds for misuse. Therefore, the government’s response must go beyond disciplinary action and include systemic reform. The suspension ordered by the government sends a message that allegations of misconduct will not be taken lightly.

“Patient trust in healthcare is precious and fragile, making administrative or ethical compromises deeply damaging. The ongoing inquiry at GMC Anantnag must not be treated as an isolated incident; instead, it should serve as a wake-up call for stronger oversight, better governance, and a renewed commitment to absolute medical accountability.”

Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo’s statement that the inquiry followed multiple complaints suggests that public grievances played a crucial role in bringing the matter to light. This underlines another important reality: whistleblowers, complaints, and public oversight remain vital in safeguarding public institutions. However, suspension alone cannot be seen as a complete solution. The larger goal should be to strengthen governance in healthcare institutions. Regular audits, digital claim verification, stronger procurement monitoring, and independent review mechanisms must become standard practice. Modern health insurance schemes generate large volumes of data, and this data should be used proactively to identify unusual patterns before irregularities grow into major scandals. Equally important is protecting the reputation of the medical profession. The overwhelming majority of doctors work with dedication, often under intense pressure and difficult conditions. Cases of alleged misconduct involving a few individuals should not overshadow the contributions of countless healthcare workers serving patients honestly. But maintaining public trust requires swift and transparent action whenever concerns arise. For Jammu and Kashmir, this case offers an opportunity for reform. The region has invested significantly in expanding healthcare access, improving medical infrastructure, and strengthening tertiary care facilities. These gains must be protected through robust accountability systems. Public welfare schemes can only succeed when citizens believe resources are being used fairly and efficiently. Ultimately, healthcare is built on trust. A patient lying on a hospital bed rarely questions the technical details of treatment; they trust the system to act in their best interest. That trust is precious and fragile. Any compromise—whether administrative or ethical—damages the bond between the public and the healthcare system. The ongoing inquiry at GMC Anantnag should therefore serve as more than an isolated disciplinary matter. It should become a wake-up call for stronger oversight, better governance, and renewed commitment to ethical medical practice. In matters of health, accountability must never be optional—it must be absolute.

The announcement by the Government of Jammu and Kashmir regarding the creation of nearly 22,000 jobs through outsourcing has sparked widespread discussion across the Union Territory. At a time when unemployment remains one of the biggest concerns for the youth, any move promising large-scale employment naturally draws attention and raises expectations. However, the decision has also triggered criticism from various quarters, especially among job aspirants, civil society groups, and political observers who question whether outsourcing is the right model for sustainable employment in Jammu and Kashmir. On the positive side, the government’s move can be viewed as an attempt to address the pressing issue of joblessness in a region where thousands of educated youth continue to wait for employment opportunities. Over the years, the unemployment rate in J&K has remained a serious challenge, leading to frustration among graduates, postgraduates, and skilled workers alike. In such a situation, the creation of 22,000 jobs—even through outsourcing—offers a ray of hope to many families struggling with economic uncertainty. Outsourcing, in administrative terms, allows departments to fill workforce gaps quickly without undergoing the lengthy and often complicated process of regular recruitment. This can help improve service delivery in sectors where manpower shortages are acute. Essential departments such as healthcare, education, public services, and technical support often require immediate staffing solutions. Through outsourcing, the government may be aiming to ensure efficiency while keeping administrative costs manageable. Yet, despite these practical advantages, the criticism surrounding the move cannot be ignored. The biggest concern is the **nature and quality of employment** being offered. Outsourced jobs are typically contractual, temporary, and often lack long-term security. Unlike permanent government positions, these jobs may not provide pension benefits, stable salary structures, career progression, or adequate employee protections. For many young aspirants who spend years preparing for competitive examinations in hopes of securing government jobs, outsourcing feels less like employment generation and more like a compromise. There is also a growing perception that outsourcing may gradually weaken the traditional recruitment system. Government jobs in J&K have historically been seen as a pathway to stability and social mobility. Families invest significant time, money, and emotional energy in preparing their children for public service examinations.

“While the 22,000-job announcement shows the government is treating unemployment urgently, it highlights complex workforce challenges. For J&K’s youth, employment represents dignity and stability, meaning recruitment must prioritize job quality, security, and fairness over mere numbers and short-term efficiency.”

When a large number of vacancies are filled through third-party agencies rather than transparent recruitment boards, concerns over accountability and fairness naturally arise. Another key issue is transparency. The success or failure of outsourced recruitment depends heavily on how the process is managed. Questions need clear answers: Which agencies will handle recruitment? What criteria will be used for selection? How will merit be ensured? What safeguards will prevent favoritism or exploitation? Without robust oversight, outsourcing can create opportunities for irregularities and erode public trust. Critics also argue that outsourcing should not become a substitute for regular recruitment. Instead, it should be used only where temporary or specialized manpower is genuinely required. If outsourcing becomes the default employment model, it risks creating a generation of workers trapped in insecure jobs with limited rights. That could deepen economic vulnerability rather than solve it. At the same time, outright rejection of outsourcing may overlook the immediate employment needs of thousands of youth. The challenge lies not merely in whether outsourcing is used, but how responsibly it is implemented. If outsourced employees are guaranteed fair wages, timely payments, safe working conditions, and transparent hiring procedures, the model can serve as a temporary bridge toward broader employment reforms. The government must therefore strike a careful balance between administrative flexibility and social responsibility. Recruitment policies should prioritize merit, transparency, and dignity of labour. Alongside outsourcing, regular recruitment through established public institutions must continue without delay. Vacant permanent posts in critical departments should be filled through fair competitive processes to restore confidence among aspirants. The 22,000-job announcement is both an opportunity and a test. It reflects the government’s recognition of unemployment as an urgent issue, but it also exposes the complexities of modern workforce management. Employment generation cannot be measured solely by numbers; the quality, security, and fairness of jobs matter equally. For the youth of J&K, jobs represent more than income—they symbolize dignity, stability, and hope for the future. Any recruitment policy must respect that aspiration. The government must ensure that in its pursuit of efficiency, it does not sacrifice the long-term interests of the very people it seeks to empower.

The annual Amarnath Yatra has always represented far more than a pilgrimage to a revered cave shrine in the Himalayas. It is a profound expression of faith, endurance, and spiritual commitment that draws lakhs of devotees from across the country. As this year’s pilgrimage approaches, Jammu and Kashmir once again finds itself preparing for one of the most significant religious gatherings in India—this time under an even sharper security lens and heightened national attention. The scale of preparations underway reflects both the sanctity of the yatra and the seriousness of the challenges surrounding it. From security deployments to logistical arrangements, every aspect is being meticulously monitored. The Union government has adopted a zero-risk approach, reinforcing its determination to ensure that pilgrims can undertake the journey safely and without disruption. The involvement of the Union Home Minister in reviewing arrangements underscores the importance attached to the event. With advanced surveillance tools such as drones, integrated CCTV systems, and strengthened intelligence coordination, authorities are leaving little room for vulnerability. This heightened preparedness is not without reason. The memory of last year’s terror attack in Pahalgam remains fresh. That incident served as a grim reminder that enemies of peace continue to target symbols of faith and unity. Yet, despite attempts to instill fear, the yatra continued. Devotees climbed steep, unforgiving mountain routes with unwavering determination, proving that terror can threaten lives but cannot weaken belief. That resilience carries deep meaning. The Shri Amarnath shrine, located nearly 3,880 metres above sea level, stands not only as a sacred site of worship but also as a symbol of India’s pluralistic heritage. The pilgrimage has long reflected Kashmir’s tradition of coexistence and shared cultural space. It is this symbolism that hostile forces seek to attack. By continuing the yatra year after year, pilgrims collectively reject the narrative of fear and division. At the same time, security concerns remain real and cannot be underestimated. Cross-border terrorism continues to pose a serious challenge. Despite repeated military and strategic responses, terror networks remain active, seeking opportunities to strike at vulnerable targets. Recent encounters in Rajouri reinforce the reality that infiltration and sleeper threats persist. The challenge for security agencies is therefore not merely to respond to threats, but to detect and neutralize them before they materialize. Encouragingly, the security architecture this year appears stronger and more integrated. The deployment of 670 companies of central armed forces, alongside the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Indian Army, and intelligence agencies, has created a formidable protective shield. From Lakhanpur to Baltal and Pahalgam, the entire pilgrimage route is under strict watch.

“The Amarnath Yatra is the ultimate testament to human resilience, where raw devotion meets ironclad discipline. Backed by thorough preparation and collective vigilance, this sacred pilgrimage proves a powerful truth year after year: no amount of hardship or terror can break the spirit of a people united by faith.”

Transit corridors, base camps, transport hubs, and critical access points are all being monitored through layered security protocols. Equally important is the directive for senior officers to remain physically present on the ground, ensuring quick decision-making and visible leadership. However, security is not solely the responsibility of the administration. Pilgrims themselves must act responsibly. Compliance with convoy schedules, route restrictions, and official advisories is essential. Such measures are designed not to inconvenience devotees but to safeguard lives. The Himalayan terrain adds another layer of risk. Sudden weather changes, landslides, and altitude-related complications can turn dangerous within minutes. In such conditions, discipline becomes as important as devotion. Parallel to security efforts, infrastructural improvements deserve recognition. The administration has significantly upgraded facilities to improve pilgrim experience. Lodging centres, expanded trekking routes, emergency medical services, and eco-friendly registration facilities reflect careful planning. These developments ensure smoother movement while also addressing environmental concerns in the fragile mountain ecosystem. The yatra also carries immense economic significance for Jammu and Kashmir. It sustains thousands of livelihoods—from transport workers and pony handlers to hoteliers and small traders. For many local families, the pilgrimage season is a crucial source of annual income. A smooth and successful yatra therefore benefits not just pilgrims, but the broader regional economy. Ultimately, the Amarnath Yatra remains a story of faith triumphing over adversity. It is where devotion meets discipline, and spirituality meets resilience. With comprehensive preparations in place and collective vigilance guiding the way, this year’s pilgrimage can once again reaffirm a powerful truth: neither terror nor hardship can diminish the spirit of a people united by faith.

At a time when the world is increasingly witnessing conflicts being treated as instruments of policy, the recent de-escalation between the United States and Iran offers an important lesson: war can intensify crises, but it rarely resolves them. The temporary diplomatic understanding reached between the two sides has brought a much-needed pause to escalating hostilities in West Asia and renewed hope that negotiation can still succeed where military action fails. The agreement, which creates space for further negotiations over the coming weeks, has already influenced global markets. Oil prices softened soon after news of the breakthrough emerged, underlining how closely peace and economic stability are linked. The Gulf region remains central to global energy supplies, and even minor disruptions there quickly affect economies across continents. One of the most sensitive flashpoints remains the Strait of Hormuz, a narrow but strategically vital passage through which a major portion of the world’s oil shipments moves. Whenever tensions rise in this corridor, energy markets react instantly. Uncertainty in shipping routes leads to higher insurance costs, delayed cargo movement, and increased prices for fuel-dependent economies. However, the larger issue extends beyond shipping lanes or market indicators. At the heart of the US-Iran dispute lies a deeper trust deficit centered around Iran’s nuclear programme, sanctions, regional influence, and long-standing geopolitical rivalry. These issues cannot be bombed into submission. They require difficult, patient, and sustained diplomacy. Track records show that prolonged military confrontation often creates more instability than security. Wars may temporarily weaken an opponent, but they also breed resentment, displacement, economic collapse, and wider regional insecurity. In contrast, dialogue—though slower and politically demanding—creates room for compromise and long-term stability. This is why the current diplomatic opening matters. It signals that even bitter adversaries eventually return to the negotiating table because conversation remains the only realistic path toward lasting peace. For India, developments in West Asia are never distant geopolitical events. Their impact is immediate and deeply felt. India imports a significant portion of its crude oil requirements, and any sharp rise in global oil prices directly affects domestic fuel costs. Higher crude prices mean increased petrol, diesel, and LPG rates, which in turn push up transportation expenses, food prices, and inflation.

“Regional conflicts severely threaten livelihoods and global trade, underscoring why the international community must leverage the current US-Iran understanding into long-term diplomatic engagement. Lasting peace cannot be built through military confrontation; it requires sustained political will and negotiation to address root causes, protect human lives, and prevent economic destruction.”

The burden of such price shocks falls hardest on ordinary citizens. In Jammu and Kashmir, where economic challenges already weigh heavily on households, the consequences of rising fuel costs can be particularly severe. The region is still navigating economic uncertainty, unemployment, and rising living expenses. An increase in petrol and diesel prices raises transportation costs for commuters, traders, and farmers alike. It also inflates the prices of essential goods, placing additional pressure on families already managing tight budgets. The ripple effects are visible everywhere—from vegetable markets to public transport fares. Beyond economics, regional instability in the Gulf creates security concerns for millions of Indians working abroad, particularly in West Asian countries. Many Indian families depend on remittances sent by relatives employed in the Gulf. Any escalation in conflict threatens livelihoods, disrupts employment, and creates uncertainty for these workers. This is why peace in West Asia carries significance far beyond diplomatic circles. It influences global trade, household expenses, employment security, and economic confidence. The international community must therefore treat the current US-Iran understanding as more than a short-term ceasefire. It should be used as a foundation for broader engagement aimed at addressing the root causes of conflict. Sustainable peace requires political will, mutual guarantees, and consistent diplomatic effort. The lesson remains clear: military confrontation may deliver temporary tactical gains, but it cannot build lasting peace. Dialogue, however difficult, remains the strongest tool available to prevent destruction and protect human lives. In a world increasingly divided by conflict, leaders must choose negotiation over escalation. The cost of war is always paid by ordinary people—through lost lives, broken economies, and uncertain futures. That is precisely why peace must never stop being the first priority.

From North to South, dynastic politics continues to cast a long shadow over Indian democracy. Political surnames still carry enormous weight, often determining who gets party tickets, leadership roles, and public attention. Whether in regional parties or national politics, family lineage frequently matters more than merit, grassroots work, or leadership capability. This trend raises a serious question: is Indian democracy truly empowering the people, or merely recycling political families’ generation after generation? Dynastic politics is not limited to mainland India alone; even politically sensitive regions with unique histories have witnessed the same pattern. In several places, power has often revolved around a handful of families, with leadership circulating within well-established circles while new voices struggle to find space. The result is a political ecosystem where access often depends less on public service and more on legacy, connections, and inherited influence. This phenomenon cuts across ideologies and geographies. In the north, parties such as the Samajwadi Party and Rashtriya Janata Dal have long reflected family-centered leadership structures. In the south, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam and YSR Congress Party have similarly seen leadership concentrated within political families.  At the national level, the Indian National Congress has remained strongly associated with one family for decades. These examples show dynastic politics is not an exception—it is deeply embedded in India’s political culture. The problem with dynastic politics is not that politicians come from political families. Many second-generation leaders may be capable, experienced, and sincere. The real issue begins when surname becomes the primary qualification for leadership. When inheritance replaces internal democracy, deserving grassroots workers are pushed aside. Across the country, countless party workers spend decades building organizations at the local level, mobilizing public support, and working during difficult times. Yet when leadership opportunities arise, positions often go to sons, daughters, nephews, or close relatives of established political figures. This sends a damaging message: loyalty and hard work matter less than bloodline. Such a culture weakens democratic institutions. Political parties begin functioning less like democratic organizations and more like family-run establishments. Decision-making becomes centralized, dissent is discouraged, and merit suffers. Over time, this creates a leadership vacuum because future leaders are selected based on inheritance rather than capability.

“India’s democratic system heavily favors established political dynasties due to their wealth, networks, and influence, creating high entry barriers for first-generation leaders. To establish a true meritocracy, India must reduce campaign costs, increase financial transparency, and shift voter loyalty from family names to candidate competence and integrity. The goal is not to ban political families entirely, but to eliminate political entitlement and ensure leadership is earned through public service.”

In many regions, including politically complex border areas, public frustration with entrenched family politics has grown steadily. Young people increasingly question why leadership remains confined to a select few while educated and capable newcomers remain sidelined. This frustration is not merely about politics—it reflects a deeper desire for fairness, representation, and opportunity. The solution lies in strengthening internal democracy within political parties. Candidate selection and leadership promotion must become transparent and merit-based. Internal elections should be meaningful, not symbolic. Leadership must be earned through performance, public engagement, and organizational commitment. Newcomers must also be actively encouraged. India has millions of talented young citizens who want to serve in public life but find politics inaccessible. Teachers, entrepreneurs, lawyers, journalists, social workers, and grassroots activists can bring fresh ideas and practical solutions. Their entry would energize governance and improve representation. Electoral reforms are equally necessary. Campaigning in India is expensive, and political families already possess money, networks, and influence. This makes it extremely difficult for first-generation leaders to compete. Lowering financial barriers and improving transparency can help create a fairer playing field. Voters too must play their part. Dynastic politics survives partly because familiar surnames still attract emotional loyalty. Citizens must ask harder questions: What has this candidate achieved? What vision do they offer? Have they earned leadership through merit? India’s democracy has produced remarkable self-made leaders from modest backgrounds. That possibility must remain open to every citizen. India does not need to eliminate political families entirely; it needs to end political entitlement. From remote border districts to metropolitan cities, the message must be clear: leadership should be based on competence, integrity, and public service—not inheritance. Only then can Indian democracy truly reflect the aspirations of all its people.

In the polished corridors of Kashmir’s private schools, an uncomfortable contradiction quietly defines the education economy. The individual responsible for safely driving a school bus often earns a higher monthly income than the teacher entrusted with shaping young minds inside the classroom. This comparison is not meant to diminish the work of transport staff. School bus drivers perform a critical duty, often under demanding conditions, and their fair remuneration is entirely justified. The real concern emerges when this reality is juxtaposed with the financial and professional treatment of educators—those whose work forms the intellectual foundation of the very institutions they serve. Across the private education sector in Jammu and Kashmir, teaching has gradually been stripped of its dignity as a stable profession. Despite being highly qualified, trained, and certified, teachers are frequently placed in a precarious position within institutional hierarchies. Salaries remain modest, increments are inconsistent, and job security is minimal or entirely absent in many cases. Employment is often governed more by discretion than by structured policy, leaving educators vulnerable to arbitrary decisions. This vulnerability is compounded by a regulatory environment that has struggled to keep pace with the rapid commercialization of education. While private schools regularly approach the Fee Fixation and Regulation Committee seeking fee hikes—many of which are approved with limited public disclosure—the corresponding obligation to improve staff welfare remains largely unenforced. The result is a widening gap between rising institutional revenues and stagnant teacher compensation. Over time, a paradoxical system has taken shape: schools expand infrastructure, invest in marketing, and project an image of academic excellence, while the very workforce responsible for delivering that excellence remains financially undervalued. Teachers are expected to manage growing academic responsibilities, administrative duties, and performance pressures, all while working under fragile employment conditions that offer little long-term stability. The imbalance is not confined to teachers alone. Support staff, including school bus drivers, experiences their own version of financial uncertainty. While their earnings may surpass those of teachers during active academic months, their wages are frequently reduced during extended winter breaks when schools shut down due to harsh weather. This seasonal adjustment effectively turns stable employment into conditional livelihood, where income fluctuates not on effort or responsibility, but on the academic calendar. Such practices reflect a broader operational philosophy within segments of private schooling system—one that prioritizes cost flexibility for management while externalizing economic insecurity onto employees. The burden of financial adjustment is consistently borne by those at the lower tiers of the institutional structure, whether in classrooms or behind the wheel. Adding to this structural imbalance is the inconsistent role of oversight institutions and public authorities.

“While private schools expand their campuses and marketing budgets to project an image of prestige, the frontline workers delivering that value—teachers and support staff—bear the burden of financial insecurity. From heavy workloads and fragile contracts for educators to seasonal wage cuts for bus drivers during winter vacations, institutional cost flexibility is achieved by externalizing economic risk onto the lowest structural tiers, unchecked by inconsistent regulatory oversight.”

On one hand, official statements frequently caution against the “commercialization of education,” expressing concern over escalating fees and private profiteering. On the other, the same administrative ecosystem is often visibly present at private school events as chief guests and dignitaries, lending symbolic legitimacy to institutions whose internal labor practices remain largely unregulated. This dual posture—public critique paired with private endorsement—creates an environment where accountability is diluted. Ceremonial recognition substitutes for regulatory enforcement, and performative concern overshadows systemic correction. In such a setting, exploitative structures persist not in secrecy, but in plain sight. What is particularly striking is that viable alternatives already exist within the country. Several states and union territories have implemented stronger frameworks governing private school operations, including standardized teacher service conditions, transparent fee regulation, and clearer accountability mechanisms. These interventions demonstrate that meaningful reform is not only possible but already operational in comparable contexts. For Jammu and Kashmir, the challenge is therefore not conceptual but administrative. Strengthening enforcement mechanisms, establishing clear service rules for educators, ensuring transparency in fee utilization, and insulating education governance from symbolic patronage could collectively reshape the current landscape. Such reforms would not dismantle private education but would align it more closely with its stated purpose. Ultimately, education cannot function sustainably as a purely commercial enterprise. It relies on the stability, motivation, and dignity of those who deliver it. When those individuals are undervalued, the consequences extend far beyond institutional balance sheets—they affect the quality of learning itself. Until that imbalance is addressed, the contradiction will remain stark: a system where those entrusted with transporting children are often valued more consistently than those responsible for transforming them. And in that contradiction lies a deeper question about what society truly prioritizes when it speaks of education.

The breakthrough achieved in the Zojila Tunnel project marks far more than a construction milestone. It symbolizes India’s determination to overcome some of the world’s most formidable geographical barriers through engineering excellence, innovation, and perseverance. Stretching 13 kilometres beneath the rugged Himalayan terrain at an altitude of over 11,500 feet, the tunnel is poised to redefine connectivity between Kashmir and Ladakh while strengthening national integration, economic development, and strategic preparedness. The Himalayas are unlike any other mountain range in the world. Young in geological terms, they remain tectonically active and continue to evolve under immense geological pressures. For engineers, this creates a uniquely challenging environment. Unlike stable rock formations found in many tunnel projects globally, Himalayan geology is unpredictable. Rock conditions can change dramatically within a few metres, presenting loose formations, water-bearing zones, cavities, fractures, and unstable slopes. Every metre excavated carries the possibility of encountering a new challenge. The harsh climate compounds these difficulties. Temperatures frequently plunge below minus 30 degrees Celsius during winter, while heavy snowfall and avalanches pose constant threats to both workers and machinery. The tragic loss of lives due to avalanches in the Zojila region during construction underscores the risks faced by those working in one of the most inhospitable environments on Earth. Maintaining construction schedules under such conditions requires extraordinary planning, resilience, and commitment. Yet the successful breakthrough demonstrates the remarkable capabilities of modern engineering when combined with careful geological assessment. The adoption of the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM) proved instrumental in navigating the complexities of Himalayan terrain. Unlike rigid excavation approaches, NATM allows engineers to continuously adapt support systems according to actual ground conditions encountered during excavation. Through controlled blasting, rock bolting, shotcrete reinforcement, and continuous monitoring, the tunnel’s structural integrity has been maintained despite the mountain’s unpredictable nature. One of the greatest challenges in Himalayan tunnelling is managing water ingress.

“The Zojila Tunnel project showcases human ingenuity overcoming severe natural challenges to boost India’s military operational readiness and civilian development. More than just a mountain passage, the breakthrough represents a resilient gateway to national progress, opportunity, and vision.”

The mountains store vast quantities of groundwater and melting snow. Uncontrolled water pressure can destabilize rock formations and trigger tunnel failures. Engineers working on the Zojila project employed sophisticated drainage systems and support structures to safely manage these conditions. Such measures reflect the growing maturity of India’s tunneling expertise and its ability to execute complex infrastructure projects in difficult environments. The significance of the Zojila Tunnel extends well beyond engineering achievement. For decades, the Zojila Pass has remained vulnerable to prolonged winter closures due to heavy snowfall, isolating Ladakh from the Kashmir Valley for months at a time. The tunnel will provide all-weather connectivity, ensuring uninterrupted movement of people, goods, essential supplies, and emergency services. It will reduce travel time, improve reliability, and enhance the quality of life for residents of the region. Economically, the project has the potential to unlock new opportunities in tourism, trade, agriculture, and logistics. Improved connectivity can stimulate investment, generate employment, and promote balanced regional development. For Ladakh’s remote communities, better access to markets, healthcare, and education could prove transformative. From a strategic perspective, the tunnel carries immense national importance. Ladakh occupies a sensitive geopolitical position, and dependable year-round access is critical for defence logistics and border management. Infrastructure projects such as Zojila strengthen India’s ability to maintain operational readiness while supporting civilian development. As the project moves closer to completion, it stands as a testament to human ingenuity confronting nature’s most daunting challenges. The Zojila Tunnel is not merely a passage through a mountain; it is a gateway to opportunity, resilience, and national progress. Its breakthrough reminds us that with vision, expertise, and determination, even the highest barriers can be overcome.

The role of a teacher extends far beyond delivering lessons. Teachers shape young minds, nurture talent, guide students through challenges, and lay the foundation for a society’s future. However, in Jammu and Kashmir, as in many parts of the country, teachers are increasingly burdened with a growing list of non-academic assignments, including election duties, census-related work, surveys, and other administrative tasks. While these responsibilities may be important for governance, their impact on the education system deserves serious attention. Schools are meant to be centres of learning, where students receive uninterrupted academic support and guidance. When teachers are repeatedly assigned to non-teaching duties, classroom learning inevitably suffers. A teacher engaged in election training, voter verification, census activities, or other official assignments cannot devote the same time and attention to lesson planning, classroom teaching, and student assessment. The result is a direct loss for students, particularly those studying in government schools where teacher shortages are already a concern. The issue becomes even more significant in the present context. Teachers are now required to maintain regular attendance records and adhere to strict reporting schedules. At the same time, many educators travel long distances to reach their schools. Ongoing traffic congestion and rush-hour delays in several parts of Jammu and Kashmir have added to their daily challenges. Teachers often spend considerable time commuting, only to find themselves juggling classroom responsibilities with additional government assignments. This dual burden affects not only teachers but also students. When a teacher is absent due to official duties, classes are either combined, adjusted, or left unattended. Students lose valuable instructional time that cannot easily be recovered. In crucial academic years, even a few missed lessons can create learning gaps that affect examination performance and overall understanding of subjects. There is also the question of educational quality. Modern teaching requires preparation, innovation, and continuous engagement with students. Teachers are expected to adopt new pedagogical methods, integrate technology into classrooms, monitor student progress, and provide individual attention where needed. These expectations become difficult to meet when educators are frequently diverted to non-academic work.

“The future of Jammu and Kashmir relies heavily on the quality of its education system. To ensure uninterrupted learning and prevent instructional loss, policymakers must strike a better balance between administrative governance and educational priorities. Minimizing non-teaching duties is essential so that teachers can remain in the classroom and focus entirely on their core mission: educating and inspiring the next generation.”

No one disputes the importance of elections, census operations, or other public administration exercises. These are essential functions of a democratic system and require capable manpower. However, the repeated dependence on teachers for such assignments raises an important policy question: should education suffer every time the administration requires additional personnel? Many experts have long argued for the creation of dedicated administrative and field staff for large-scale government exercises. Such a step would reduce disruptions in schools while ensuring that public programmes continue to function efficiently. Teachers possess valuable organizational skills, but those skills should primarily serve the education sector. Another important aspect is teacher morale. Educators who enter the profession to teach and mentor young people often find themselves overwhelmed by paperwork and administrative obligations. Over time, this can lead to frustration and reduced job satisfaction. A motivated teacher is one of the strongest assets of any education system, and policies should aim to support rather than overburden them. The future of Jammu and Kashmir depends significantly on the quality of education provided to its young generation. Students deserve uninterrupted learning, and teachers deserve the opportunity to focus on their core mission. While administrative requirements cannot be ignored, a better balance must be found between governance needs and educational priorities. The classroom should remain the primary workplace of a teacher. Every hour a teacher spends away from students is an hour of learning lost. Policymakers must recognize this reality and take meaningful steps to minimize non-teaching duties, ensuring that teachers can do what they were trained to do best—educate, inspire, and prepare the next generation for the future.

The recent visit by PDP president and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti to AIIMS Awantipora has once again brought the spotlight on the delayed completion of one of Kashmir’s most important healthcare infrastructure projects. Seeking explanations from the Centre and executing agencies about the prolonged construction timeline is a legitimate political exercise. However, any honest discussion on the delays must begin with a recognition of the circumstances that contributed to them, including decisions taken during the PDP-led government itself. The demand for accountability should not be selective. AIIMS Awantipora and AIIMS Jammu were both announced under the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP) for Jammu and Kashmir. Yet while AIIMS Jammu has become operational, AIIMS Awantipora continues to remain under construction years after its foundation stone was laid. The obvious question is why. The answer lies not in a single failure but in a series of challenges that unfolded after the project site was chosen. Among the most significant was the location itself. The Awantipora site required multiple clearances, permissions and consultations involving key agencies of the Central Government. Security concerns raised by the Army necessitated detailed examinations and modifications. The project’s Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) underwent revisions, resulting in changes to planning and execution schedules. These were not routine procedural hurdles. They had a direct impact on timelines and costs. Large public infrastructure projects, particularly those involving healthcare institutions of national importance, cannot proceed without obtaining statutory approvals and addressing security concerns. The process may be frustratingly slow, but it is unavoidable. This is where political accountability becomes important. Had the project been located on a site free from major security objections and extensive clearance requirements, construction could have progressed much faster. It is therefore difficult to separate today’s delays entirely from yesterday’s decisions. Those who selected the site must also explain why a location requiring such complex approvals was considered the most suitable option. That does not absolve the Union Government or implementing agencies of responsibility. Once challenges became apparent, there was an obligation to resolve them with urgency. Delays in approvals, administrative bottlenecks and coordination failures have undoubtedly contributed to the prolonged timeline. The people of south Kashmir have waited far too long for a premier healthcare institution that was promised as a transformative project for the region. The COVID-19 pandemic further complicated matters. Construction activity across the country slowed dramatically during the lockdown period. Labour shortages, disruptions in supply chains and restrictions on movement affected infrastructure projects nationwide. In Kashmir, harsh winter conditions added another layer of difficulty, limiting the working season and affecting construction schedules.

“The opening of AIIMS Awantipora has faced extensive delays due to challenges like site selection, sparking political debate and blame-shifting. Real accountability requires looking at the facts rather than rhetoric, with executing authorities explaining the unfinished progress. Ultimately, success should be measured by how quickly the hospital opens to serve the people of Kashmir, not by who wins the political argument.”

Yet none of these factors can fully explain why the gap between AIIMS Jammu and AIIMS Awantipora became so pronounced. The contrast has inevitably fuelled public frustration and political criticism. Residents are less interested in bureaucratic explanations than in seeing hospital wards, classrooms and medical facilities become operational. The debate, therefore, should not be reduced to a contest of accusations between the Centre and regional political parties. Such exchanges may generate headlines, but they do little to advance the project. The larger objective must be to ensure that AIIMS Awantipora is completed and made functional at the earliest possible date. What Kashmir needs today is transparency. The public deserves a clear status report outlining completed works, pending tasks, remaining challenges and realistic timelines for commissioning. Periodic progress updates would help build confidence and prevent speculation. Equally important is ensuring that the institution begins providing healthcare services as soon as possible, even if certain components are completed in phases. AIIMS Awantipora is far more than a construction project. It represents a critical investment in healthcare, medical education and regional development. Once operational, it will reduce dependence on hospitals outside the Valley, create opportunities for medical professionals and improve access to specialised treatment for thousands of patients. Political leaders reserve the right to seek answers, but accountability must begin with facts rather than rhetoric. Those questioning the delay must also acknowledge the role of site selection and the challenges that followed. Likewise, the authorities responsible for execution must explain why the project has still not crossed the finish line. The people of Kashmir deserve less blame-shifting and more delivery. After years of delays, the real measure of success will not be who wins the political argument, but how quickly AIIMS Awantipora opens its doors to the public.