UGC (University Grants Commission) has recently banned admission in PhD courses on three private universities of Rajasthan for five years due to serious rule violations. Now 30 more universities across the country are under investigation. If any of these are found to be violating the rules, then strict action will be taken against them.
What is the matter?
UGC found that three universities of Rajasthan did not follow PhD protocol. These include criteria such as entrance examination, formation of a Research Advisory Committee (RAC), and examination of the thesis. This step has been taken to maintain quality and transparency in higher education.
UGC Chairman’s statement
UGC Chairman M. Jagadish Kumar said:
“Ensuring the quality of PhD courses is imperative to maintain the credibility of Indian higher education. “Action will be taken against those institutions which have violated the guidelines.”
He also informed that investigation into PhD courses is going on in other universities also. If found violating the rules, such institutions will be prevented from admitting PhD students.
It is mandatory to follow PhD guidelines
- Entrance and Interview Weightage:
There should be 70% weightage in the entrance exam and 30% weightage in the interview. - Presentation:
Students are required to give a presentation to the RAC every semester. - Thesis check:
It is imperative to pay attention to the quality of testers and feedback from experts.
UGC scrutiny process
- Every year 10 universities will be evaluated.
- If rule violation is confirmed, a show cause notice will be issued.
- Institutions can appeal, but if irregularities are proven, strict action will be taken.
Objective of UGC
This initiative of UGC is to maintain the transparency and global reputation of the Indian higher education system. The Commission wishes to ensure that PhD courses are conducted to the highest standards and the integrity of the degree is not compromised.
