Recently, the Universities Grants Commission (UGC) has released The UGC (Minimum Qualifications for Appointment and Promotion of Teachers and Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges and Measures for the Maintenance of Standards in Higher Education) Regulations, 2025. Several states have objected to provisions in the regulations, as they fear that the regulations could give the Chancellor – who is typically the state Governor – a bigger role in appointing Vice Chancellors (VCs) of state universities.
What are the features of new UGC Guidelines?
The new guidelines streamline the VC and teacher appointment criteria and procedure in higher education institutions.
| VC Appointment | a. Specifies the Search-cum-Selection Committee composition- Clearly defines composition- Nominees of the Chancellor/Visitor, UGC Chairman, and University’s apex body (Ex-Senate). b. Expansion of eligibility of VC by adding a third category- Professionals with 10+ years of experience in industry, public administration, public policy, or public sector undertakings, with proven academic contributions, will also be eligible for VC appointment. c. Alignment with NEP 2020 goals- The guidelines emphasize leadership, governance, and collaboration skills of appointed VC. This is in alignment with the NEP 2020 goals. |
| Teacher Recruitment | a. New approach of Selection- It discontinues API-based shortlisting from 2018 regulations, which relied on quantitative metrics (Ex- Publication counts). The new guidelines introduces a qualitative, holistic approach, focusing on- Innovation in teaching, Societal contributions, Promoting Indian knowledge systems, and Multidisciplinary expertise. b. Flexibility in UGC-NET- It allows candidates to qualify in a subject of choice, regardless of degree disciplines. This encourages multidisciplinary expertise. c. Removal of cap on contract-based Faculty- Removes the 10% cap on contract-based appointments but mandates rigorous selection and periodic reviews to ensure quality. d. Promoting Indian Languages & Cultural Heritage- The guidelines encourage academic work in regional languages and contributions to Indian knowledge systems. |
| NEP 2020 Alignment | The guidelines aim to break down disciplinary silos and encourage interdisciplinary teaching and research. It also focuses on enhancing the quality, inclusivity, and innovation in higher education. |
What have been the latest cases of Centre-state conflicts over VC appointments?
| Kerala | In 2023, a Bill was passed to replace the Governor with eminent educationists as Chancellors. The Bill is pending for Presidential assent. |
| Karnataka | In December 2024, the Assembly passed a Bill to replace the Governor with the Chief Minister as Chancellor for a state university. A similar Bill for other universities is under consideration. |
| Maharashtra | In 2021, the state sought to restrict the Governor’s powers in VC appointments, but the Bill was withdrawn in 2022 under a new government, restoring the Governor’s authority. |
| Tamil Nadu | In 2022, two Bills to allow the state government to appoint VCs were passed but these remain unapproved by the Governor. |
What is the rationale of UGC for introduction of these guidelines?
1. Holistic Evaluation- The regulations replace the rigid Academic Performance Indicator (API) system with a more qualitative approach. This shift aims to recognize diverse forms of academic impact beyond mere numerical scores.
2. Inclusivity and Flexibility- The draft introduces dedicated pathways for recruiting individuals from varied backgrounds, including sportspersons, artists, and those with disabilities.
3. Interdisciplinary Teaching- By allowing candidates to teach in areas aligned with their highest qualifications rather than their previous academic focus, the regulations promote an interdisciplinary approach to education.
4. Clearer Processes- The draft regulations enhance transparency in recruitment and promotion processes by establishing clear guidelines and accountability measures.
5. Cultural Preservation- The encouragement of Indian languages in academic publications and degree programs is another significant aspect of the regulations. This initiative aims to make education more accessible and culturally relevant, promoting a sense of identity within the academic framework
What are the concerns with the new UGC Guidelines?
1. States’ Concerns- States contend that the draft regulations erode state autonomy in higher education. Central dominance in VC appointments is seen as a direct assault on federalism.
2. Subjectivity concerns- Critics fear that Qualitative assessments may lead to inconsistencies without clear rubrics.
3. Politicization concerns- Increased role of governors in VC appointments raises concerns about politicization and autonomy.
4. Over-Reliance on Contract Faculty- The removal of cap on contract-based faculty raises potential fear of its impacts on job security and academic integrity.
5. Resource Disparities- Structural issues like uneven funding and infrastructure remain unaddressed.
6. Casualization of Faculty- The removal of a cap on contractual appointments and provisions for hiring non-academic professionals (Professors of Practice) are seen as threats to permanent faculty positions, service conditions, and academic integrity.
What Should be the Way Forward?
The way forward should be the “HOLDER” approach.
H: Holistic Assessment– Continue to emphasize a comprehensive evaluation of faculty, considering teaching, research, community engagement, innovation, and other contributions beyond traditional metrics.
O: Openness and Transparency- Ensure transparent and accountable processes for recruitment, promotions, and grievance redressal.
L: Leadership and Governance- Strengthen university governance by promoting effective leadership and ensuring institutional autonomy.
D: Diversity and Inclusion- Foster a diverse and inclusive academic community by promoting equity and addressing systemic barriers.
E: Excellence and Innovation- Encourage academic excellence and innovation through research, teaching, and community engagement.
R: Resource Allocation and Sustainability- Ensure equitable resource allocation and address systemic issues such as inadequate funding and infrastructure.
Overall, the UGC Regulations 2025 represent a progressive step towards transforming faculty recruitment and promotion in Indian higher education. If implemented effectively, they could lead to a more inclusive, flexible, and dynamic academic environment that recognizes diverse contributions while aligning with national educational goals. However, successful implementation will depend on addressing stakeholder concerns and navigating governance challenges within India’s complex federal system.
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