Jammu and Kashmir Government Grants One-Time Exemption for Staff's Higher Qualifications

 Landmark Decision: J&K Government Grants Special Allowance for Staff's Distance Learning Degrees

In a recent development, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir's School Education Department has issued a groundbreaking order granting a one-time exemption to teaching and other staff who have acquired higher qualifications during service through distance or online modes.

The decision comes after careful consideration of the impediments faced in finalizing seniorities within various disciplines and cadres due to the lack of prior permission for acquiring higher qualifications.

Referencing circular instructions from the Finance Department, the government has outlined specific conditions for the exemption, including recognition of universities/institutions by the UT Government, recognition of courses, and proper recording of leave availed during examinations in the service books of teachers.

Furthermore, the government has constituted committees in both Kashmir and Jammu divisions to examine and entertain such degrees and qualifications for promotion or inclusion in seniority lists.

These committees have been tasked with completing the necessary assessments within the next two months to update seniority lists accordingly.

Importantly, the government emphasized that no post-facto permission for acquiring higher qualifications will be entertained henceforth, underscoring the importance of adhering to set procedures and norms.

This landmark decision is set to benefit a significant number of teaching and other staff members in the School Education Department, facilitating career progression and recognizing their dedication to continuous learning.