In universities and colleges, words carry weight. Titles carry even more weight. They signal learning, responsibility, and position. Yet across Kashmir’s higher education system, there is growing confusion about academic prefixes such as Prof., Dr., Mr., and Ms. What looks like a small issue of naming has slowly turned into a larger problem of clarity, credibility, and academic honesty.

In everyday practice, many teachers with post-graduation and NET/SET qualification are addressed as “Professor.” Sometimes this happens out of courtesy. Sometimes it becomes routine. Over time, the prefix finds its way into seminar banners, invitation cards, social media posts, and even public discussions. This may appear harmless, but academically and officially it is incorrect.

Under India’s higher education rules governed by university grants commission (UGC), which also apply to Jammu and Kashmir, the word “Professor” has a very specific meaning. It is not a general term for a teacher. It is not a reward for experience. It is not a title earned by clearing NET. Professor is an academic rank. A person becomes a Professor only through a formal appointment or........

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