Over 80% of Kashmiri Language Lecturer Posts Vacant in Kashmir Valley Schools

Kashmir's efforts to promote its native language in schools face a critical setback, with over 80% of sanctioned lecturer positions remaining unfilled. Official data presented in the J&K assembly reveals that only five lecturers are teaching Kashmiri across the valley, despite 27 sanctioned posts.

The language was introduced in government schools from 2000 onwards at primary and middle levels, and extended to classes 9-10 from 2018-19. However, teaching infrastructure has failed to keep pace. All five sanctioned posts in Kupwara district remain vacant, while districts like Baramulla, Ganderbal, and Pulwama have no filled positions.

Despite the *Jammu and Kashmir Official Languages Bill* of 2020 granting Kashmiri official language status, recruitment has stagnated. Academics note that while most valley residents speak Kashmiri, only a small percentage can read and write it fluently. Upper and middle-class families increasingly prefer Urdu and English, viewing them as more prestigious.

The government claims implementation efforts continue under the *National Education Policy 2020*, though the widespread vacancies suggest significant challenges in preserving the region's linguistic heritage through formal education.