Kashmir University Postpones October 20 Exams After Govt Holiday Order
Srinagar, Oct 17 (ProKashmiri.in): The Jammu and Kashmir Government has announced a change in the observance date of the holiday for Urs Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani (RA), shifting it from October 18 (Saturday) to October 20 (Monday) across Kashmir province.
According to Government Order No. 1358-JK(GAD) of 2025, issued by the General Administration Department (GAD) on Thursday, the modification comes as a partial change to an earlier order dated December 29, 2024. The order, signed by M. Raju, IAS, Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, states that the decision has been taken under the directions of the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir.
The notification clearly mentions:
“In partial modification of Government Order No. 2193-JK(GAD) of 2024 dated 29.12.2024, it is hereby ordered that the provincial holiday (Kashmir Province only) on account of ‘Urs Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Sahib’ shall now be observed on 20.10.2025 (Monday) instead of 18.10.2025 (Saturday).”
The order has been circulated to all key government departments, including divisional and district administrations, police authorities, educational institutions, and other public offices to ensure uniform observance across the region. Officials have been instructed to update schedules accordingly and inform their respective employees and departments.
Kashmir University Postpones October 20 Exams
Following the government’s announcement, the University of Kashmir has decided to postpone all examinations scheduled for October 20, 2025, in view of the newly declared public holiday.
A notification issued by the Assistant Controller of Examinations (Conduct) stated that all exams fixed for that date stand deferred.
“Due to the public holiday declared for Urs-Sheikh Noor-Ud-Din Sahib on October 20, 2025, all university examinations scheduled on that date stand postponed,” the official notice reads.
The university has further clarified that fresh dates for the postponed examinations will be announced separately. Students are advised to regularly check the university’s official website and examination notice board for updates.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance of the Urs
The annual Urs of Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani (RA) also known as Nund Rishi, the revered patron saint of Kashmir; holds immense spiritual and cultural importance in the Valley. His teachings of peace, humility, and communal harmony continue to guide generations of Kashmiris.
Every year, thousands of devotees visit Charar-e-Sharief shrine to pay their respects, offer prayers, and participate in special religious gatherings. The government traditionally declares a provincial holiday to enable people across the region to observe the occasion with devotion.
Public Offices and Schools to Remain Closed
With the date change, all government offices, educational institutions, and semi-government establishments in Kashmir province will remain closed on Monday, October 20. The General Administration Department has instructed concerned departments to make the necessary adjustments in their official schedules and ensure smooth functioning before and after the holiday.
Local transporters, business owners, and educational institutions have welcomed the government’s decision to move the holiday to Monday, noting that it would allow a more convenient observance and prevent scheduling conflicts for weekend events.
Revised Schedule Overview
- Occasion: Urs Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani (RA)
- Earlier Date: October 18, 2025 (Saturday)
- Revised Date: October 20, 2025 (Monday)
- Applicable To: Kashmir Province only
- Issued By: General Administration Department, Government of J&K
FAQs on the Holiday and Exam Postponement
Q1: Why did the J&K Government change the holiday date for Urs Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani (RA)?
The date was revised to better align with the official religious observance schedule and to ensure smooth participation of devotees across Kashmir province.
Q2: Who issued the official order?
The order was issued by the General Administration Department (GAD) and signed by M. Raju, IAS, Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, under the direction of the Lieutenant Governor.
Q3: Does the holiday apply to the entire Jammu and Kashmir?
No. The order specifically mentions that the holiday applies to Kashmir Province only.
Q4: Which date will the Urs holiday now be observed on?
The holiday will now be observed on Monday, October 20, 2025, instead of Saturday, October 18, 2025.
Q5: What has the University of Kashmir announced?
The university has postponed all examinations that were scheduled for October 20, 2025, due to the newly declared public holiday.
Q6: Will new exam dates be notified soon?
Yes. The University of Kashmir has said that revised dates for the postponed exams will be announced separately.
Q7: Will schools and offices remain open on October 18 now?
Yes, since the holiday has been moved to October 20, Saturday (October 18) will be a normal working day in Kashmir.
Q8: Is the holiday applicable to colleges and universities?
Yes, as it’s a provincial holiday, all government and private educational institutions in Kashmir will observe it.
