‘Liberate Education from Consumerism’: Tarigami Urges Reforms in J&K Assembly
Jammu/Srinagar, March 13, 2025 – In a passionate address during the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly’s session on demands for grants, CPM leader and Kulgam MLA Mohamad Yousuf Tarigami called for urgent reforms to free education from the grip of “consumerism and commodification.” His speech highlighted the challenges posed by the New National Education Policy (NEP) and the privatization of education in the region.
Education Under Threat
Tarigami expressed deep concern over the NEP, alleging that it distorts history and undermines the region’s legacy of free universal education. He criticized the high fees charged by private schools, which he argued are unaffordable for poor families. “Education must not be a commodity; it is a right,” he stated, urging the government to ensure equitable access to quality education for all, especially the underprivileged.
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He also emphasized the need to promote a scientific temper among students and protect education from the influence of the market economy. “Controversies are being created about kings, while history does not belong to kings; rather, it belongs to the people,” Tarigami remarked, calling on the Education Minister to spearhead reforms.
Healthcare and Social Welfare
Turning his attention to healthcare, Tarigami praised the Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) in Srinagar for providing quality care to the poor. However, he cautioned against politicizing its autonomy, citing the example of PGI Chandigarh, which maintains independence while delivering premium healthcare. He urged the government to equip all government hospitals and medical colleges with adequate facilities and staff to reduce the need for patients to seek treatment outside the state.
Additional Demands
Tarigami also raised several other pressing issues:
- Upgrading Degree College Anantnag: He urged the Education Minister to elevate the institution to the status of a deemed university.
- Support for ASHA Workers: He demanded salary hikes and assured incentives for these frontline healthcare workers.
- Daily Wagers and Minimum Wages: Highlighting the disparity with Ladakh, where higher minimum wages are provided, he called for similar measures in J&K.
- Pensions for the Physically Challenged: Tarigami advocated for an increase in monthly pensions to support this vulnerable group.
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A Call for Action
Tarigami’s speech underscored the need for a comprehensive approach to address the challenges in education, healthcare, and social welfare. His call for reforms resonated with the Assembly, sparking discussions on the future of governance in Jammu and Kashmir.
