VIKAS SHARMA
JAMMU, OCT 5: The Government of India’s digital push has transformed thousands of classrooms into technology-driven learning hubs. Yet, in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, this digital revolution continues to flicker between progress and pause.
As per data presented in the Lok Sabha in July 2025, while J&K has made notable strides under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), a large share of its ICT labs and Smart Classrooms remain non-functional.
According to figures from PRABANDH (as on May 31, 2025), J&K has 4,011 ICT Labs approved, of which 3,036 are functional, reflecting a healthy 75 percent utilization rate.
However, the picture dims when it comes to Smart Classrooms — of 4,361 approved since 2020–21, only 1,352 are functional, leaving nearly 70 percent non-operational.
Educationists describe this as a case of “infrastructure without integration.” Digital boards, projectors, and multimedia tools designed to make lessons interactive often lie idle due to power shortages, poor internet connectivity, and lack of maintenance. In many rural and hilly districts, teachers continue to rely on the traditional chalk-and-talk method despite having advanced tools within reach.
“Smart classrooms must go beyond hardware installation,” said a senior academician. “We need to empower teachers, provide continuous ICT training, and ensure reliable power and connectivity. Otherwise, a Smart Classroom remains just a smart-looking room — not a learning revolution.”
Nationally, the figures present a mixed picture. Across India, 1,56,213 ICT Labs have been approved, of which 1,14,552 are functional, while 1,46,040 Smart Classrooms have been sanctioned, with 86,753 currently operational.
States like Tamil Nadu (13,351 functional ICT labs), Rajasthan (8,807), and Maharashtra (10,134) lead the country in integrating digital learning infrastructure effectively. In contrast, several northeastern states and smaller UTs — including Ladakh and Lakshadweep — are still struggling to catch up due to geographical and logistical challenges.
The Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, launched by the Ministry of Education, aims to blend technology with pedagogy to make learning experiential. Complementing this is the NISHTHA program, delivered via the DIKSHA platform, which trains teachers in ICT tools and competency-based assessments.
However, experts note that while these initiatives provide vision and resources, their on-ground execution in J&K remains inconsistent.
“As India races toward a digitally inclusive education system, Jammu and Kashmir stands at a critical crossroads. The approvals are in place, the vision is clear, and the intent is strong — but what’s needed now is sustained follow-through, reliable infrastructure, trained manpower, and policy accountability.
Only then can J&K’s digital classrooms transform from glowing promises on paper to glowing screens in reality”, experts said.
