With the recent change in leadership at the College Development Council (CDC), University of Kashmir, following the completion of tenure on February 28, 2026, the moment calls for a balanced and honest reflection on the regulatory environment governing affiliated professional colleges in the Valley.

Over the past few years, institutions—particularly Nursing and B.Ed Colleges—have operated under increasing administrative and regulatory pressures. While maintaining academic standards remains essential, regulation must be grounded in practicality, consultation, and a clear understanding of evolving institutional realities.

The transition of Jammu & Kashmir from a State to a Union Territory brought with it the need to align with national regulatory frameworks. Such transitions are inherently complex and require time, coordination, and structured institutional support. Many institutions, however, found themselves under pressure to achieve near-total compliance within limited timeframes, often without adequate facilitation or structured guidance.

A recurring concern among stakeholders across multiple institutions has been the absence of a pragmatic and consultative approach. Instead of functioning as a bridge between institutions and regulatory systems, the framework was often perceived as rigid and enforcement-driven. This created an environment where compliance became an end in itself, rather than a means to enhance academic........

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