Non-BJP governments, including Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, are raising objections to the draft UGC guidelines 2025, expressing concerns over assault to federalism and attempt at excessive centralisation.
Published Jan 24, 2025 | 9:00 AM ⚊ Updated Jan 24, 2025 | 9:00 AM
Andhra and Telangana yet to finalise stance on UGC's uniform higher education guidelines (iStock)
Neither Telangana nor the Andhra Pradesh government has firmed a stand on the draft UGC regulations released by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on 6 January.
The non-BJP governments, including Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, are raising objections to the guidelines. They are afraid that they would undermine the principle of federalism and the autonomy of the state-run universities. Recruitment qualifications is a bone of contention in the draft guidelines.
Despite Congress in power, for the Telangana government, taking a stance on the draft UGC guidelines 2025 doesn’t seem to be a priority. While officials are reviewing their implications, there has been little serious discussion at the government level.
An official familiar with the situation stated, “The government has not yet decided on any of the UGC guidelines.” When asked about the likely stance, the official said, “I can’t predict how the government will respond, but it’s possible they may oppose it when the time comes.”
Similarly, an official in Andhra Pradesh said that the government has not yet applied its mind to what its stand should be. In all likelihood, it may not raise any objection. As the TDP is in NDA at the national level, it may play along with the UGC.
Non-BJP governments view the draft guidelines as an attempt to interfere with state educational institutions and undermine state powers. Chief Ministers of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka have deemed the draft guidelines an attack on Federalism and an attempt towards excessive centralisation of powers. However, the Congress-led government in Telangana may be more inclined to accept them.
The most contentious aspect for non-BJP governments is the proposal to grant governors the authority to appoint vice-chancellors at state-run universities. There are concerns that this could diminish the role of state governments and academic bodies in key decision-making processes.
There are concerns that giving governors the power to appoint vice-chancellors could open the door for political appointments, sidelining academic professionals.
Additionally, there is strong opposition to the UGC’s proposal to take strict action against institutions that don’t meet PhD quality standards, including banning certain universities from awarding PhDs. Critics argue that this move fails to consider regional challenges and the unique circumstances that universities face.
Tamil Nadu and Kerala, which are run by non BJP-parties, are also against the guidelines as they intended to implement the NEP. They are formulating their own state education policies (SEPs), which take into consideration the concerns that NEP does not address.
The one-size-fits-all approach of uniform standards nationwide may not be feasible, as states have unique, region-specific needs. Critics argue that the National Education Policy (NEP) doesn’t adequately address these state-specific challenges.
On 6 January, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan released the draft UGC guidelines. He stated that these reforms aim to bring innovation, inclusivity, flexibility, and dynamism to higher education, empower teachers and academic staff, improve academic standards, and set the stage for educational excellence. He also praised the UGC team for aligning the Draft Regulations and Guidelines with the principles of NEP 2020.
Among the draft regulations, the one that non-BJP states are frowning at, is the appointment of the vice-chancellors. The regulation says that the Chancellor of the university (Governor) shall appoint the Vice-Chancellor out of the panel of names recommended by the search-cum-selection committee.
Flexibility: Candidates can pursue teaching careers in subjects they qualify for with NET/SET, even if different from their previous degrees. Ph.D. specialisation will be prioritised.
Promoting Indian Languages: The draft regulations encourage the use of Indian languages in academic publications and degree programmes.
Holistic Evaluation: It aims to eliminate score-based short-listing, focusing on a broader range of qualifications, including “Notable Contributions.”
Diverse Talent Pool: Creates dedicated recruitment pathways for experts in arts, sports, and traditional disciplines.
Inclusivity: Provides opportunities for accomplished sportspersons, including those with disabilities, to enter the teaching profession.
Enhanced Governance: Revises the selection process for Vice-Chancellors with expanded eligibility criteria, with transparency.
Simplified Promotion Process: Streamlines the criteria for promotions, emphasising teaching, research output, and academic contributions.
Focus on Professional Development: Encourages continuous learning and skill enhancement for teachers through faculty development programs.
Enhanced Transparency and Accountability: Promotes transparent processes for recruitment, promotion, and addressing grievances.
(Edited by Ananya Rao)
