SRINAGAR: The SKUAST-K Scientists & Teachers Association (SSTA) has welcomed the UT administration’s “groundbreaking” decision to increase the age of superannuation for University professors to 65, fulfilling a longstanding demand of the scientific community.
Expressing gratitude, the SSTA acknowledged the “visionary leadership” of the Chancellor, SKUAST-Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, for his historic decision in alignment with UGC guidelines. They also commend the unwavering commitment of the Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo, and Principal Secretary to Government Agriculture Production Department, Shailendra Kumar, towards developing Jammu and Kashmir as a model state in agriculture and allied sectors. The role of Vice-Chancellor SKUAST-Kashmir, Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai, in advocating for the extension of the retirement age of University professors to enhance teaching and research endeavors is recognized and lauded.
This landmark decision by the UT administration is expected to significantly enhance the academic advancement of the university and address faculty shortages, thereby benefiting the student community, the Association said in a statement, adding that retaining experienced faculty members will facilitate quality teaching, research, and extension activities, ultimately serving the interests of students, farmers, and stakeholders.
It said that SKUAST-Kashmir has made remarkable progress under the guidance of the Chancellor, achieving accolades such as NIRF ranking 05 among agriculture universities in India and ‘Band Excellent’ under Atal Innovation Ranking. The university is committed to furthering academic and research excellence, it added.
The teaching faculty pledges to uphold the objectives of the National Education Policy-2020 and transform SKUAST-Kashmir into a center of excellence. However, they appeal to the UT administration to reconsider the proposed riders/reviews outlined in Government order No. 183-JK (HE) of 2023, dated 03-07-2023. These riders, which are not present in any central/state university of India, are deemed unnecessary and may hinder the dedicated service of professors. The faculty remains hopeful that their appeal will be considered favorably.
While advocating for the removal of riders, the teaching faculty said it agrees that professors should not hold administrative positions in the university after reaching the existing superannuation age of 62. They remain optimistic and urge the LG administration to address their concerns for the betterment of the academic community.

BILAL HABIB