The Lost Scholars of Kashmir

Thousands of contractual professors in Jammu and Kashmir have spent over a decade teaching and researching under temporary contracts, an entire generation of intellectual talent slipping through the cracks.

- Dr. Syed Irfan Shafi

Dr. Rouf began his academic career like many young scholars in Kashmir, with hope, energy, and a desire to contribute something original.

His first research project promised recognition, impact, and a path forward.

But the citation graphs that once climbed steadily now trace a slow, persistent decline, a visual echo of a system that has not kept pace with its talent.

His story is not unique. It is the narrative of thousands of contractual assistant professors across Jammu and Kashmir, a generation whose promise is slowly fading under institutional neglect.

For over ten years, these scholars have carried the state’s education system on their shoulders. They teach large classrooms, manage administrative tasks, grade countless papers, and supervise students’ ambitions.