A new species of Dactyloctenium (Poaceae) from Jammu and Kashmir is described and illustrated. Among Indian species of Dactyloctenium, the new D. ruderalis is closely related to the only previously known D. aristatum in the region by being non-stoloniferorous. Among others, distinctive characteristics of much taller; peduncle length and bearded curved apex; unequal glumes; ovate lemma; palea wingless and grain striations are features supporting the proposed new species. A thorough description illustrations, photo plates and a key to related species are provided to aid in its identification and differentiation.