UGC Tightens Regulations on PhD Programmes: Bans Three Rajasthan Universities for Five Years

UGC Tightens Regulations on PhD Programmes: Bans Three Rajasthan Universities for Five Years

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has taken a significant step to ensure the quality and integrity of PhD programmes in India. It has banned three universities in Rajasthan—OPJS University (Churu), Sunrise University (Alwar), and Singhania University (Jhunjhunu)—from enrolling PhD scholars for five academic sessions, starting from 2025-26 to 2029-30.

Action Against Non-Compliance

The UGC has instructed these universities to immediately stop admitting students to their PhD programmes due to their failure to adhere to UGC regulations. Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar, Chairman of the UGC, emphasized the importance of maintaining high standards in PhD programmes.

“Universities must be committed to maintaining the highest standards in PhD programmes. UGC will take appropriate action against institutions that fail to follow UGC’s PhD regulations,” Prof. Kumar stated.

Monitoring Mechanism Strengthened

To address the issue of non-compliance, the UGC has established a standing committee tasked with monitoring universities’ adherence to PhD regulations. The committee’s responsibilities include:

Evaluating the quality of PhD programmes offered by universities.

Suggesting corrective measures for institutions not following the guidelines.

Recommending disciplinary actions against erring universities.

Prof. Kumar also revealed that the UGC is reviewing the PhD programmes of several other universities. “If they are found violating UGC PhD regulations, similar actions will be taken against them,” he warned.

Preserving Global Standards

The UGC Chairman stressed the importance of protecting the reputation of India’s higher education system. “We must ensure that the integrity and global reputation of Indian higher education remain uncompromised,” he said.

Impact of UGC’s Decision

This stringent action by the UGC sends a strong message to universities nationwide about the importance of adhering to PhD regulations. It also reinforces the UGC’s commitment to maintaining academic excellence and preventing the dilution of standards in higher education.

By banning the three universities and setting up a monitoring mechanism, the UGC aims to uphold the credibility of PhD degrees awarded in India. This step is expected to ensure that only institutions meeting the prescribed standards are allowed to offer doctoral programmes.