'Is Kashmir so sick that everyone must be a doctor?’: Why expert wants Kashmiri students to think beyond NEET

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Padma Shri awardee Professor Harish Chandra Verma, popularly known as H C Verma, has said that students in Kashmir, like those in the rest of India, are showing a growing interest in science. However, the renowned physicist and author believes that this scientific mindset needs more encouragement and nurturing.

In a conversation with ETV Bharat, H C Verma expressed both hope and concern about the current state of education in Kashmir. “Whenever I come to Kashmir and talk to students here, I feel that their entire focus is on preparing for the NEET exams. I ask them, do we really need so many doctors? Is our country so sick? Is Kashmir really so sick that everyone must become a doctor?” he said.

He questioned the overwhelming emphasis on medicine as a career choice. “Then what about the engineers? Where will the scientists, teachers, thinkers, and inventors go? It seems education has now become merely a means to secure a job, not to understand life or serve others.”

He explained that education today is largely being seen as a way to get a job, rather than as a way to understand life or contribute to society. While students are increasingly choosing medicine over engineering, Professor Verma pointed out that core subjects like physics and mathematics are being left behind.

He also addressed the difference between private and government school students. “Many government schools lack proper facilities. But with the right support and attention, those students can do just as well,” he told ETV Bharat.

The role of a teacher goes beyond teaching the textbook, for H C Verma. “We need to think about how scientific or mathematical concepts from books apply to everyday life. A teacher should connect physics to common experiences, from the home kitchen to daily activities, making students aware of the science around them,” he asserted.

Professor Verma believes that education should not be limited to degrees or employment. “Real education should help students live meaningful and fulfilling lives.”