NEP-Based UGC Draft Raises Concerns for Tamil Nadu Universities
Chennai, February 6, 2025: Tamil Nadu universities are facing uncertainty following the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) recent draft notification, which proposes grading higher education institutions (HEIs) based on their implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. According to the draft, university privileges and entitlements will now be determined based on compliance with NEP guidelines.
Since the Tamil Nadu government has firmly opposed the NEP, none of the state universities have adopted the policy. If the proposed regulations take effect, these institutions could see their rankings and entitlements affected. The UGC has invited suggestions from stakeholders regarding the draft notification.
Shift from NAAC-Based Accreditation
Previously, the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) accreditation was the primary benchmark for determining university privileges. However, the UGC now plans to introduce an evaluation system that considers an institution’s progress in implementing NEP recommendations.
Allegations of Policy Imposition
State universities have raised concerns over what they perceive as an attempt to force NEP implementation. A vice-chancellor of a Tamil Nadu university criticized the move, stating:
“When ranking systems like NAAC and NIRF already exist, introducing a new evaluation process seems targeted at states opposing NEP.”
Evaluation Process and Criteria
The proposed assessment will follow a two-step evaluation system, with 49 quantifier parameters defining eligibility criteria. These include:
- At least 75% of faculty members should be on permanent contracts.
- Universities should appoint a Professor of Practice.
- Adoption of the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) system.
Growing Concerns Over UGC Regulations
This is not the first time UGC regulations have sparked opposition from Tamil Nadu’s academic institutions. Previously, the commission proposed changes to the appointment process of vice-chancellors and faculty, which state universities also opposed.
With Tamil Nadu remaining firm in its stance against the NEP 2020, the outcome of the consultation process will determine whether these new regulations become a national standard or face further resistance.
