Controlling centrally

• The draft UGC Regulations, 2025, proposes to eliminate State governments’ role in the selection process for Vice Chancellor (VC) of universities.

• The Chancellor, or the Governor in most State universities, will have all powers.

• The committee would consist of a nominee from the Chancellor, UGC Chairman, and the respective university syndicate/senate.

• The VC would be appointed from three to five names recommended by the committee.

• Violations could lead to debarment from UGC schemes and denial of funding under the UGC Act.

• Opposition has been raised from several states, including Tamil Nadu, who urged the Centre to withdraw the draft.

• The draft also includes a proposal to make non-academics eligible for the VC’s job, requiring them to have served at least 10 years at a senior level in industry, public administration, public policy, or public sector undertakings.

• The proposal to extend the VC’s tenure from the typical three to five years is welcomed.

• The UGC should aim for reforms to eliminate any governmental role in university administration, except for funding, and elevate them into autonomous institutions.