In a significant move following the Supreme Court’s April 8 verdict, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin chaired a high-level meeting with vice-chancellors (VCs) and registrars of state-run universities, marking a pivotal shift in university governance and reaffirming the state’s leadership in higher education.
Supreme Court Verdict Triggers Governance Reforms
The meeting was held just days after the Supreme Court deemed Governor RN Ravi’s inaction on state-passed bills as illegal, directing strict timelines for bill clearance to prevent constitutional delays. The state swiftly notified 10 bills, seven of which transfer the power to appoint and dismiss vice-chancellors from the governor to the state government, signaling a decisive realignment of administrative control.
An official clarified that the meeting served to eliminate confusion regarding the chain of command. “Universities must now align with directives from the higher education department, not the Raj Bhavan,” the source said.
Tamil Nadu Exceeds National Education Policy Targets
At the meeting, CM Stalin revealed that Tamil Nadu’s Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) in higher education has reached 51.3%, nearly double the national average, and exceeding the NEP 2020 target of 50% by 2030—despite the state not formally adopting the policy. He attributed the achievement to the Dravidian model of inclusive development.
“Our focus is on relevant education, employment readiness, and inclusivity,” Stalin said. He urged universities to evolve with global advancements in science and technology and to offer world-class educational practices.
The state currently boasts:
- 21 state-run universities, including Anna University, Annamalai University, and Madurai Kamaraj University
- Over 500 engineering colleges
- 31 premier higher education institutions, of which 22 rank in the NIRF top 100
New Vision for Global Academic Outreach
Stalin emphasized the need for Tamil Nadu universities to attract international students and become global hubs for research and innovation. He encouraged future consultations with national education experts to shape a comprehensive roadmap for higher education.
Participating in the meeting were key figures such as Higher Education Minister Govi Chezhian, Chief Secretary N Muruganandam, and heads of institutions like Dr MGR Medical University and Dr J Jayalalithaa Music and Fine Arts University.
Stalin Appeals to PM on Haj Quota Cuts
In a parallel development, CM Stalin wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, voicing concern over Saudi Arabia’s reported cancellation of 52,000 Haj slots allocated to Indian private tour operators. He highlighted the distress among thousands of pilgrims, especially from Tamil Nadu, and requested urgent intervention with Saudi authorities.
“This abrupt decision has left many pilgrims, who have already completed payments, in a state of deep anxiety,” Stalin noted.
