Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has expressed his gratitude to Governor Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd.) for granting approval to the Uttarakhand Minority Education Bill, 2025. The bill, which seeks to integrate minority educational institutions into the state’s mainstream education framework, is being seen as a major step toward creating a uniform, inclusive, and modern education system in the state.

I am writing about this because the approval of this bill marks a turning point in Uttarakhand’s education policy. It reflects the state government’s ongoing efforts to ensure equal educational opportunities for all sections of society while maintaining transparency and quality standards across institutions. In a state where both public and private schools play an important role, the integration of minority institutions under a unified education system is expected to bring more accountability and standardisation. This move not only aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 but also addresses the need for equitable access to quality education in every community.

CM Dhami Welcomes the Governor’s Approval

Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami thanked Governor Gurmit Singh for his support, stating that the Minority Education Bill, 2025, will bring revolutionary changes in the state’s educational setup. He described the approval as a historic decision that would ensure equality and inclusiveness across all educational institutions, regardless of management or affiliation.

Dhami added that the new law would pave the way for an education system based on transparency, merit, and modern learning practices, while also upholding cultural diversity. He emphasised that the government is committed to implementing reforms that make education both accessible and employment-oriented.

Objective of the Minority Education Bill, 2025

The Uttarakhand Minority Education Bill, 2025, aims to restructure how minority institutions operate within the state. The law seeks to:

• Abolish the separate Madrasa Board and bring all minority institutions under the Uttarakhand Minority Education Authority.
• Ensure that all schools, including minority-run ones, are affiliated with the Uttarakhand Board of School Education.
• Introduce a common quality framework for curriculum, teacher training, and evaluation standards.
• Promote inclusive education by giving students from all communities access to a standardised education system.

Officials have clarified that this move is not intended to interfere with religious education but rather to ensure that students studying in minority institutions receive mainstream academic exposure and opportunities comparable to those in other schools.

A Step Toward Uniform and Modern Education

The Dhami government has consistently advocated for educational uniformity and equal learning opportunities. This bill supports that vision by aligning all educational boards and systems under a common academic structure.

By merging traditional and modern learning approaches, the policy aims to prepare students for competitive exams and future job markets. Moreover, minority institutions will continue to preserve their cultural and linguistic identity while ensuring that students also meet national academic benchmarks.

Education experts have noted that this integration could lead to more government oversight, better infrastructure development, and standardised teacher recruitment and training across all educational institutions in the state.

Ensuring Inclusivity and Equality

The bill reflects the government’s broader commitment to the principle of Antyodaya—uplifting every section of society, especially the marginalised. It ensures that minority students have access to the same level of facilities, resources, and educational standards as others in the state.

The move also aligns with the Right to Education (RTE) Act, which mandates free and compulsory education for all children. By bringing minority schools under the same framework, the government aims to make education more inclusive, transparent, and accountable.