Jammu, Dec 21, KDC: Hundreds of Diploma in Horticulture holders from Jammu and Kashmir have demanded the immediate withdrawal of a communication issued by Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Jammu (SKUAST-J), which denied recognition to the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) Diploma in Horticulture.
The diploma holders have sought the intervention of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Agriculture Production Minister Javid Ahmad Dar, urging them to resolve the issue at the earliest.
According to the students, SKUAST-J, through a communication issued on April 9, 2025, declared the IGNOU Diploma in Horticulture invalid by allegedly misinterpreting the University Grants Commission (UGC) Open and Distance Learning (ODL) Regulations.
They, according to news agency Kashmir Dot com, pointed out that the UGC, in a clarification issued on November 11, 2025, had categorically stated that the IGNOU Diploma in Horticulture is exempted under the ODL Regulations and is fully recognised. IGNOU, they added, has also reaffirmed the national validity of the diploma.
Despite these statutory clarifications, the students alleged that SKUAST-J continues to deny recognition to the qualification, terming the move discriminatory and contrary to existing regulations.
The diploma holders said the decision has adversely impacted recruitment, promotions and admissions, especially at a time when several government departments are advertising posts that require the Diploma in Horticulture.
They have appealed to the Lieutenant Governor, Chief Minister and Agriculture Production Minister to immediately withdraw the contested communication, issue clear directions for recognition of the IGNOU Diploma in Horticulture across Jammu and Kashmir, and ensure strict compliance with UGC guidelines. (KDC)
