VIKAS SHARMA
JAMMU, SEPT 8: As the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir government has ordered safety audit of all government schools across all districts, the Unified District Information System for School Education Plus (UDISE+) data presented in the Lok Sabha on August 18, 2025 revealed that schools are facing significant infrastructure challenges, with a worrying percentage of school buildings classified as dilapidated.
As per the data tabled, out of the total government schools in the UT, 4.7 percent of primary schools and 15.4 percent of secondary schools are in a state of disrepair, raising concerns about the safety and learning environment for students.
The issue is particularly alarming in secondary schools, where nearly one in every six schools is considered structurally weak. This not only affects the quality of education but also poses a serious threat to student safety.
School education experts have raised concerns that inadequate infrastructure may discourage attendance and disrupt academic schedules, especially in rural and remote areas where alternatives are limited. They stated that despite several initiatives taken by the administration to improve educational facilities, the data highlights persistent gaps that need urgent attention. The challenge is further compounded by geographical difficulties, harsh weather, and the scattered population across mountainous regions, which make infrastructure development more complex and expensive.
While the situation in Jammu & Kashmir is concerning, it is not isolated. Across India, 8.7 percent of primary schools and 5.7 percent of secondary schools are reported to have dilapidated buildings. States like Chhattisgarh (17.6 percent primary), Madhya Pradesh (17.2 percent primary), and Mizoram (17.6 percent primary) are also struggling with infrastructure issues. Among secondary schools, Andaman & Nicobar Islands (22.2 percent), Sikkim (20.8 percent), and Arunachal Pradesh (19 percent) report the highest percentages of schools with deteriorating buildings.
On the other hand, some states have managed to keep these figures remarkably low. Chandigarh (0 percent primary), Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu (0 percent for both), Delhi (0.6 percent primary), and Goa (0.9 percent primary) are examples of regions where school infrastructure is comparatively better maintained.
The national figures reflect an average that masks stark regional disparities. Government agencies and policy planners now face the critical task of prioritizing investments, particularly in regions like Jammu & Kashmir where a combination of terrain, socio-economic factors, and conflict-related disruptions exacerbate the problem.
With education being a cornerstone of development, addressing the dilapidated state of school buildings is imperative for ensuring safe learning spaces, improving attendance, and enhancing the overall educational experience. With the safety audit now underway, authorities hope to prioritize interventions and secure the necessary funds and technical support to bring school buildings up to acceptable safety standards, ultimately strengthening education delivery across the Union Territory.
