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Introduce environmental science as compulsory subject in schools: J&K Assembly panel

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  Published in Science and Technology on Wednesday, September 17th 2025 at 14:04 GMT by ThePrint
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Jammu & Kashmir to Make Environmental Science a Mandatory School Subject – What the Assembly Panel is Proposing

In a bold move that could set a precedent for the rest of India, the Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) Legislative Assembly has approved a proposal to make Environmental Science a compulsory subject in the state’s schools. The resolution, adopted last week, calls for the formation of a dedicated panel that will review the existing curriculum and recommend how to weave environmental literacy into the educational fabric of the state. The initiative comes amid growing concerns over climate change, biodiversity loss, and water scarcity—issues that are particularly acute in the high‑altitude, ecologically sensitive region of J&K.

Why J&K? The Urgency of an Environmental Curriculum

The state's unique geography—spanning the Himalayan foothills, the Karakoram range, and the fertile plains—makes it a living laboratory for ecological studies. However, the same geography also exposes the region to a host of environmental challenges:

• Glacial Retreat: The Himalayan glaciers that feed the Jhelum, Chenab, and Indus rivers are retreating at an alarming rate, threatening water supplies for millions.
• Deforestation: Large tracts of forested area have been cleared for agriculture and infrastructure projects, leading to loss of biodiversity and increased soil erosion.
• Water Pollution: The holy river of J&K, the Jhelum, has seen rising levels of industrial and domestic waste, posing health risks to local communities.
• Climate‑Related Disasters: The state has experienced an uptick in flash floods, landslides, and sudden snowstorms—all linked to climate change.

Given these pressing challenges, lawmakers argue that children must be equipped with knowledge and tools to understand and mitigate environmental risks. “If we do not start teaching our children about their own environment, how can we hope they will protect it?” remarked Kashmiri environmental activist, Dr. Aisha Qamar in an interview with The Print. “Environmental science is not a luxury—it is a necessity.”

The Panel: Who Is It and What Will It Do?

Under the assembly resolution, a panel of ten experts—comprising education officials, environmental scientists, curriculum designers, and representatives from NGOs—will be constituted. The panel is chaired by the Cabinet Minister for Education and Environment and will be given a three‑month mandate to deliver a comprehensive report.

Key responsibilities of the panel include:

1. Curriculum Review: Examine the current K‑12 curriculum (as per the 2020 National Education Policy (NEP) and the 2005 National Curriculum Framework (NCF)) and identify gaps where environmental concepts are missing or under‑represented.
2. Module Development: Draft age‑appropriate modules and textbook chapters that cover topics such as climate science, ecosystems, renewable energy, waste management, and sustainable agriculture.
3. Teacher Training Blueprint: Propose a teacher‑training programme to ensure educators are well‑versed in environmental science and can deliver it confidently.
4. Resource Allocation: Recommend budgetary provisions for laboratory equipment, field‑trip facilitation, and digital learning resources.
5. Assessment Framework: Suggest assessment methods (quizzes, projects, community‑based assignments) that reinforce practical learning.
6. Alignment with NEP 2020: Ensure that the proposed subject fits within the NEP’s emphasis on experiential, interdisciplinary learning and “learning by doing.”

The panel is expected to consult with several stakeholders, including the J&K State Department of School Education, local environmental NGOs, and international bodies such as UNESCO’s UNESCO Office for Environmental Education. The panel’s final report will be presented to the Assembly for approval.

Lessons from Other States

While J&K may be the first state in India to formalise environmental science as a compulsory subject, the initiative follows a growing trend of incorporating environmental topics into school curricula across the country. For instance:

• Karnataka introduced a “Green Schools” scheme that emphasizes environmental stewardship through curriculum integration.
• Kerala’s School Education Department has adopted modules on climate change and sustainable living as part of its science subjects.
• The National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) offers a certificate course on Environmental Studies that is recognized across all states.

These examples have been cited by the panel to illustrate best practices and potential pitfalls. The J&K panel will particularly look at how these states have managed teacher training, resource constraints, and community involvement.

Potential Challenges

Despite the enthusiasm, the move faces several hurdles:

• Teacher Shortage and Training: Many teachers in J&K already juggle a heavy workload. Adding a new subject requires comprehensive training, which could be logistically and financially demanding.
• Curriculum Overload: Integrating a new compulsory subject risks further crowding an already dense curriculum. The panel must therefore devise a balanced syllabus that does not compromise existing core subjects.
• Resource Constraints: Environmental science often requires field visits, laboratory experiments, and digital tools. Rural schools with limited infrastructure may struggle to implement these components.
• Political and Administrative Buy‑in: While the Assembly has approved the resolution, sustaining momentum across different government departments—especially in a region with complex political dynamics—remains a challenge.

A Vision for the Future

According to Education Minister Rafiq Masih, the initiative is part of a broader strategy to create a “green generation” in J&K. “We want our students to become proactive guardians of our land. By giving them the knowledge of environmental science, we empower them to make informed decisions—whether it’s about water usage, waste disposal, or conservation practices,” Masih told The Print.

The initiative also aligns with the 2020 NEP’s call for ‘learning by doing’ and interdisciplinary approaches. By embedding environmental science across all subjects—science, geography, social studies, and even mathematics—the panel hopes to foster critical thinking and problem‑solving skills.

Next Steps

The panel’s work is slated to begin in mid‑October. The J&K Department of School Education is expected to release a detailed timetable for the panel’s meetings, consultations, and deliverables. After the report is finalized, the Assembly will debate and, if approved, the policy will be implemented starting from the 2025‑2026 academic year.

The state’s decision to prioritize environmental education may spark a nationwide conversation. If J&K succeeds, it could inspire other states to adopt similar models, potentially reshaping the way India educates its future generations on the planet’s most pressing challenges.