Uttarakhand Cabinet Expands Minority Education Reach

In a landmark decision, the Uttarakhand Cabinet has sanctioned the Minority Education Bill-2025, broadening the scope of minority status for educational institutions within the state. Institutions managed by Sikh, Jain, Buddhist, Christian, and Parsi communities will now receive minority benefits, previously exclusive to the Muslim community.

To be tabled during the Assembly's monsoon session commencing August 19, the bill's enactment will render previous madrasa-related laws obsolete by July 2026. Under Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami's leadership, the bill aims to include the study of languages like Gurumukhi and Pali in minority institutions.

An authority will oversee the recognition of minority educational institutions, ensuring adherence to quality standards. While some oppose the move, arguing it undermines madrasas, leaders like Mufti Shamoon Qazmi endorse the initiative for promoting inclusive educational development.

(With inputs from agencies.)