Which degree can you study without leaving Jammu? That is what a statement from Education Minister Sakina Itoo is really about. Speaking to reporters, as reported on October 10, she said the Higher Education Department is trying to introduce in colleges only those subjects that students want to study.
What she said
- Subjects named as being introduced: agriculture, horticulture, tourism and music, plus "several others."
- Colleges expanded rapidly but many lacked faculty and the subjects students demanded.
- Over two years, faculty has been provided to every college according to the subjects taught, though some still need more.
- Many colleges lacked buildings; very few approved colleges remain undeveloped, mainly because of land disputes and placement issues.
- Student enrolment rose 17% in the current academic year, she said.
The minister attributed the infrastructure work to the National Conference government; that is her characterisation.
What is not known
The report describes a policy under consideration. There is no order, no list of colleges, no timeline, and no breakdown for Jammu division. The 17% figure is the minister's own and the source does not say how it is measured. We will update when a department notice appears.
Why it matters
For a Class 12 pass-out in a smaller town, the subject list at the nearest government college decides whether a degree in tourism or horticulture is possible at home. Ask your college which of these subjects will be offered, and when. Related reading: J&K's Multiversity idea.
Source: Northlines (KNO), October 10, 2026. Photo: Amar Mahal Museum, Jammu (file photo), Wikimedia Commons.
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