Kashmir’s school calendar clash: Parents, leaders rally for Nov session return

Education Minister Opens Door to Rolling Back Controversial March Session
Srinagar, Oct 23: The demand for reverting Jammu and Kashmir’s academic calendar to its traditional November-December session has gained momentum following the formation of the new elected government. Parents, private schools, and political leaders are united in their call to abandon the March session introduced in 2022.

Sajad Lone, People’s Conference chief and Handwara MLA, strongly endorses the move back to winter exams, highlighting its dual benefits. “Apart from the weather variables, it gives our students an academic head start,” Lone argues, noting that students could gain a crucial six-month advantage for entrance exam preparation.
The Private Schools Association JK (PSAJK) reports that the current March session has reduced effective schooling days from 180 to just 125. PSAJK President G N Var points out a critical flaw: students complete their syllabi by November but must wait until after winter break for exams, disrupting their learning momentum.
Parent Mehraj Ahmad criticizes the current system: “March is a wet season. It not only prolongs the session but also increases anxiety among students.” The three-month winter break from December to February-end creates an unnecessary gap between learning and assessment.
New Education Minister Sakina Itoo has promised stakeholder consultation before making any decisions. Education Department officials confirm the proposal is under “active consideration,” emphasizing the need to minimize educational disruption during any transition.
The PSAJK has proposed an immediate solution: conducting school-level assessments by December-end, followed by Class 12 examinations after winter break, offering to assist with free assessment of government schools in line with the New Education Policy.