Srinagar, Dec 20, KNT: Hundreds of Diploma in Horticulture holders from Jammu and Kashmir have sought the intervention of the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and Agriculture Production Minister Javid Ahmad Dar after SKUAST-Jammu denied recognition to the IGNOU Diploma in Horticulture.
The students said SKUAST-J, through a communication issued on April 9, 2025, wrongly declared the diploma invalid by misinterpreting the UGC Open and Distance Learning Regulations. They said the UGC, in a clarification issued on November 11, 2025, has categorically stated that the IGNOU Diploma in Horticulture is exempted under the ODL Regulations and stands fully recognized. IGNOU has also reaffirmed the qualification’s national validity.
They alleged that despite clear statutory clarifications, SKUAST-J continues to deny recognition, which they termed discriminatory and contrary to regulations. The students said the decision is impacting recruitment, promotions and admissions at a time when multiple departments are advertising posts requiring the diploma.
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The diploma holders have appealed to the LG, CM and Agriculture Minister to withdraw the contested communication, issue directions for recognition of the IGNOU diploma across Jammu and Kashmir and ensure full compliance with UGC guidelines. [KNT]
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