Sir,
The recent conditional extension of the retirement age from 62 to 65 for professors in erstwhile state universities of J&K, subject to annual reviews, is deeply unjust.
It undermines the dignity of senior faculty who have dedicated decades to academia. UGC guidelines already mandate 65 years as the retirement age, unconditionally, and the same is followed in Central Universities and institutions like SMVDU.
Applying different rules within the same Union Territory creates disparity and resentment. Moreover, experienced professors are critical for sustaining research, teaching, and mentoring, especially amid a dearth of qualified faculty.
The annual review process is demoralizing and counterproductive. It is imperative for the Government to ensure parity by granting unconditional retirement at 65 to professors in all J&K universities.
This step will help retain talent, uphold dignity, and support the goals of the National Education Policy.
Vikas Parihar
Kishtwar