Srinagar, Sept. 9 -- The Directorate of School Education Kashmir (DSEK) has finally cracked the whip on a malaise that has crippled the schooling system in the valley for years-chronic absenteeism of students. In a recent order, the DSEK has directed all schools to strictly maintain attendance records for classes 9th to 12th. In doing so, the directorate has struck at the root of a dangerous culture in Kashmir where classrooms are deserted while coaching centers overflow. This action is not merely a policy decision; it is a battle that has to be fought the reclaiming the soul of education in Kashmir. For far too long, coaching institutes have lured students away from their schools, reducing classrooms to empty shells. Many students, with ...