Ramkot, Jammu and Kashmir – A new Kendriya Vidyalaya (KV) has opened in Ramkot, Kathua district, addressing a long-standing local demand for improved educational facilities. Union Minister Jitendra Singh inaugurated the school, stating the new institution will provide quality education to local children and wards of security personnel.
The KV Ramkot has already enrolled 200 students for the 2025-26 academic session, covering classes one to five. Each class currently holds 40 students. The school is temporarily located within the premises of the Government Model Higher Secondary School, Ramkot.
Government Schemes for Students
During the inauguration, Minister Singh urged students and faculty to utilize various government schemes from the Ministry of Science and Technology. These programs aim to identify and support young innovators and future entrepreneurs among school-aged children.
Singh specifically encouraged parents of students aged 10 to 17 years to apply for Department of Science and Technology (DST) scholarships. The INSPITE-MANAK scheme offers Rs 10,000 as financial assistance to each selected student.
For older students, aged 17 to 22 years, the INSPIRE scholarship (SHE) is available. This scholarship provides Rs 60,000 annually , which includes a Rs 20,000 mentorship grant . It supports undergraduate and postgraduate students pursuing basic sciences and research fields.
Additionally, the minister highlighted the Vigyan Jyoti Scheme , designed for girl students in Class 9 to 12. This program encourages girls to pursue higher education and careers in science and technology disciplines.
Scholarship and Grant Details
- INSPITE-MANAK:
- Target Age: 10-17 years
- Financial Assistance: Rs 10,000 per selected student
- Purpose: Identify potential innovators
- INSPIRE Scholarship (SHE):
- Target Age: 17-22 years
- Annual Grant: Rs 60,000 (includes Rs 20,000 mentorship grant)
- Purpose: Support undergraduate and postgraduate studies in basic sciences and research
- Vigyan Jyoti Scheme:
- Target Audience: Girl students, Class 9-12
- Purpose: Promote higher education and careers in science and technology
National Kendriya Vidyalaya Network
The establishment of KV Ramkot is part of a broader national expansion. The Central government approved the opening of 57 new Kendriya Vidyalayas across the country in October. This initiative represents a total outlay exceeding Rs 5,862 crore .
Currently, there are 1,288 functional Kendriya Vidyalayas . This total includes three KVs located abroad in Moscow, Kathmandu, and Tehran. As of June 30, 2025, approximately 13.62 lakh students were enrolled across all KVs.
Despite the recent approvals, government reports indicate a 28.4% drop in overall KV student enrollment over the last five years. Funding allocated for the 2025-26 academic year has also decreased sharply, according to official data.
Historical Context and Future Impact
Minister Singh noted that the Ramkot region has a history of educational achievement, producing numerous civil servants, doctors, and professionals. The new KV is expected to further enhance the educational landscape in the area.
Students and parents seeking more information on the DST and INSPIRE schemes can consult the Ministry of Science and Technology’s official website or relevant government portals for application procedures and deadlines.