UGC new draft regulations aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020

Source: The post UGC) new draft regulations aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has been created, based on the article “Criticism of draft UGC regulations ignore their potential” published in “Indian Express” on 16th January 2025

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- Governance-Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education, Human Resources.

Context: The article discusses the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) new draft regulations aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. It highlights changes promoting multidisciplinary education, flexible qualifications, inclusive recruitment, and transparent leadership appointments to enhance India’s higher education system.

For detailed information on UGC Draft Regulations 2025 read Article1, Article2

What are the UGC’s new draft regulations?

A. Flexible Qualifications for Teaching:

1. Candidates can qualify for UGC-NET or pursue a PhD in a subject different from their undergraduate or postgraduate studies. For example, a physics graduate can pursue a PhD in data science, encouraging multidisciplinary teaching and research.
2. This approach promotes passion-driven learning and dismantles rigid disciplinary boundaries.

B. Evaluation of Notable Contributions:

1. The Academic Performance Indicator (API) system, which focused on quantitative metrics, is replaced by a focus on notable contributions in academics, research, societal engagement, and institution building.
2. Contributions from librarians and sports professionals are evaluated separately, ensuring inclusivity.
3. Example: Criteria now include innovation, digital literacy, and community engagement.

C. Transparent Appointment of Vice-Chancellors (VCs):

1. The draft suggests forming a search-cum-selection committee by the Chancellor to appoint vice-chancellors (VCs). The committee will include experts from industry and the public sector, ensuring transparency and expanding the leadership pool.
2. Critics claim this affects federalism, but the draft ensures a democratic and merit-based process.
3. Opening VC positions to experts from diverse fields can bring fresh perspectives to higher education leadership.

For detailed information on UGC Guidelines on Vice-Chancellor appointments read this article here

D. Alignment with NEP 2020 Goals:

The regulations emphasize multidisciplinary education, blended pedagogy, technology integration, and strong industry-academic linkages to meet global standards.

What is the larger aim of the regulations?

1. The draft regulations are designed to create a more dynamic, inclusive, and quality-driven higher education system in India.
2. They emphasize flexibility, inclusivity, and democratic values in higher education governance and aim to enhance global competitiveness and relevance.

Question for practice:

Examine how the UGC’s new draft regulations align with the goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 to promote flexibility, inclusivity, and transparency in India’s higher education system.