DEHRADUN: The Uttarakhand government, led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, has announced a major restructuring of minority education in the state. From July 1, 2026, the existing Uttarakhand Madrasa Board will cease to function, and all minority educational institutions, including madrasas, will come under a newly created umbrella body called the Uttarakhand State Authority for Minority Education (USAME).
The government has clarified that more than 450 registered madrasas operating in the state will not be automatically shut down. Instead, they will be required to obtain affiliation from the Uttarakhand Board of School Education and subsequently secure recognition under the new regulatory framework established by the Minority Education Authority.
Under the new system, all minority educational institutions will be integrated into the mainstream education framework. Institutions imparting education to minority students will function as primary, secondary, and higher secondary schools, while also adhering to prescribed academic standards.
Officials have stated that teaching the national curriculum will be mandatory. If any institution wishes to impart religious education alongside regular academics, the content and framework of such instruction will also be regulated by the Minority Education Authority.
What is the Minority Education Authority?
The Uttarakhand Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, has approved the Uttarakhand Minority Educational Institutions Recognition Rules, 2026, framed under Section 19 of the Uttarakhand Minority Education Act, 2025.
According to Social Welfare and Minority Welfare Minister Khajan Das, the move is aimed at strengthening educational opportunities for minority communities while ensuring transparency, accountability, and quality standards.
Key Features of the New Rules
- Six minority communities are recognized: Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, and Parsis.
- Educational institutions must apply online through a designated government portal.
- Recognition will remain valid for three academic years.
- Renewal applications must be submitted at least three months before expiry.
- Authorities will assess minority status, land ownership, financial viability, staff qualifications, and commitment to social harmony.
- Physical inspections may be conducted when necessary.
- Recognition may be revoked after due process in case of violations.
Transition from Madrasa Board to New Authority
The state’s 452 registered madrasas will undergo a two-stage process:
Obtain formal affiliation from the Uttarakhand Board of School Education.
Secure recognition from the Uttarakhand State Authority for Minority Education under the new rules.
The government says the transition is designed to ensure continuity of education while improving regulatory oversight and academic standards.
