NEW DELHI: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has unveiled the draft of its 2025 regulations, introducing some ground breaking changes like permitting candidates to teach based on their highest academic specialisation. For example, a candidate with a PhD in chemistry, despite holding a bachelor’s in mathematics and a master’s in physics, would now qualify to teach chemistry. Similarly, individuals who clear the National Eligibility Test (NET) in a subject different from their earlier academic focus can teach the subject in which they qualified for NET. The new rules have also significantly broadened the eligibility criteria for selection of vice chancellors -- distinguished professionals from fields such as industry, public administration, and policy-making, and a proven record of academic contributions, can now be considered for this role. Stakeholders have been invited to review the draft and submit their feedback.
Inclusivity forms another cornerstone of these reforms. The new draft explicitly includes relaxations for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and Persons with Disabilities, alongside existing provisions for SC/ ST/ OBC candidates. In a nod to India’s linguistic heritage, it also encourages the use of Indian languages in research and teaching, promoting cultural alignment with national priorities.
The reforms aimed at modernising the recruitment and promotion framework for teachers and academic staff in higher education institutions across India. These proposed changes, which supersede the 2018 guidelines, promise to foster inclusivity, flexibility, and alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Releasing the draft, union education minister, Dharmendra Pradhan said: “By promoting flexibility, inclusivity, and recognising diverse talents, we are paving the way for a dynamic academic future for India,” as he emphasised the timely nature of these reforms in light of the ongoing implementation of NEP 2020.
The draft also extends the scope of qualifications by introducing provisions that recognise professional achievements, such as innovative teaching methods, digital content creation, and contributions to research funding. “The revised regulations ensure that contributions to knowledge and community, rather than rigid qualifications, are valued,” said M Jagadesh Kumar, chairperson, UGC.
The draft regulations also emphasise transparency and objectivity in recruitment. For example, candidates applying for teaching positions may be assessed on their teaching and research aptitude through seminars or lectures. Additionally, faculty promotion under the Career Advancement Scheme (CAS) will now account for periods of leave taken for maternity, childcare, or study, ensuring fairness in career progression.
The draft also outlines updated qualifications for positions such as librarians and directors of physical education. Librarians will now be evaluated on their contributions to library digitisation and community engagement, while achievements in indigenous sports and public health initiatives will form key criteria for physical education directors.
Highlights of the draft - Subject Flexibility: Candidates can teach based on their highest academic specialization, regardless of prior degree subjects or NET focusExpanded Vice-Chancellor Eligibility: Professionals from fields like industry and policymaking with academic contributions are now eligible.
- Inclusivity Focus: Relaxations for EWS and PwD categories alongside SC/ST/OBC, with emphasis on Indian languages in academia.
- Transparent Recruitment: Teaching candidates will be assessed on practical teaching and research aptitude
- Fair Career Advancement: Promotions consider leave for maternity, childcare, or study.
- Recognising Innovation: Criteria now include teaching innovations, digital content, and community engagement.
- Revised Librarian and Sports Roles: Emphasis on digitization, indigenous sports, and public health contributions.
- Professor of Practice: Industry experts can join HEIs for teaching and research outside sanctioned posts.
- Improved Leadership Selection: Vice-Chancellor appointments ensure transparency through expert-led committees.
- Strict Compliance Measures: HEIs violating regulations risk penalties like exclusion from UGC schemes and degree programmes.
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