JKBOSE to Distribute Free Textbooks, 15% Syllabus Relaxation Announced for Kashmir & Winter Zones

The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) has announced that the distribution of free textbooks for students up to Class 8 will begin by the end of November 2025. The initiative aims to ensure that all deserving students receive their textbooks by the first week of December, well before the new academic session begins.

Speaking at a press conference in Srinagar, JKBOSE Secretary Ghulam Hassan Sheikh acknowledged last year’s delays in textbook distribution, attributing them to logistical challenges and the shift in the academic session.

“It is a fact that the free textbooks couldn’t be delivered on time last year due to several unavoidable reasons,” Sheikh said. “This year, however, we will ensure that every student up to Class 8 receives their books by the first week of December.”

📘 Possible Changes in Class 11 Board Exams

The Secretary also revealed that JKBOSE has constituted a committee to review the possibility of doing away with Class 11 board exams.

“If the committee finds the proposal academically sound, we will consider it. Otherwise, we may retain the current system,” Sheikh clarified.

He emphasized that the board is focused on smoothly implementing the government’s decision to shift back the academic session to the November–December cycle.

🌧️ Weather-Related Disruptions and Syllabus Relaxation

Due to harsh weather conditions that disrupted the academic calendar, JKBOSE has announced a 15% syllabus relaxation for students of the Kashmir Division and Winter Zone areas of Jammu Division.

Sheikh explained the breakdown of relaxation as follows:

🧮 Exam Statistics and Schedule

The Secretary also shared key statistics about this year’s board exams:

Sheikh added that the date sheets were released ahead of time to help students prepare better.