Srinagar, June 23 -- In recent years, an unreasonable and impractical preference for academic degrees in Kashmir has led to the systematic decline of hands-on professions.

Occupations essential to the functioning of society, like mechanics, carpenters, plumbers, electricians, are increasingly stigmatised, even as unemployment among degree holders continues to rise.

No one can deny that Kashmir depends heavily on these skilled trades. So why do we fail to give them the respect they deserve?

Driven by the social prestige attached to certain government jobs, Kashmiri families and parents have come to prioritise formal degrees over vocational training.

A 2022 report from the Jammu and Kashmir Employment Department shows the region's unemp...