University-like film institutes in Pune and Kolkata

• The Union Education Ministry has notified FTII and SRFTI as universities, allowing them to launch doctoral, research, and innovative academic programs.

• The status was granted following the University Grants Commission’s advice under Section 3 of the UGC Act.

• The decision aligns with the National Education Policy, 2020, promoting greater autonomy, innovation, and academic excellence in film and media education.

• Both institutes applied to the UGC for ‘Institution Deemed to be University status’ under the ‘Distinct Category’.

• A Letter of Intent was issued to both institutes for three years before declaring them as universities.

• Both institutes must adhere to conditions such as remaining in the top 200 of the NIRF rankings for at least three years and achieving an accreditation score of at least 3.01.