Exclusive Interview with UGC Chairman, Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar Conducted by Dr. Shachi Negi, Editor, Jagriti Media
Dr. Negi: Namste sir! Could you shed light on some of the recent UGC policies?
Prof. Kumar: Namaste! One of the recent announcements is Draft UGC Promotion of Equity in Higher Education Institutions Regulations, 2025. We want to ensure no discrimination in our campuses, whether by region, caste, gender or anything.We’re also ensuring that universities should create equity committees, equity squads, and also the helplines. The equity committees would ensure to resolve the compliants within 24 Hrs. There is a huge role of equity in NEP2020.
- Another significant change is financial support through the PM Vidya Lakshmi scheme, now available for degree programs, allowing students from weaker socio-economic backgrounds to access loans. (Earlier the scheme was only for professional courses). The candidate of annual income less than 8lakhs would get loan with less rate of interest.
- Additionally, we’ve introduced accelerated and slow-paced degree programs. Students facing academic pressure can reduce credits and complete a 4-year program in 5 years, while others can complete it in 3.5 years by earning more credits. These reforms aim to provide students with freedom, flexibility, and choices.
Dr. Negi: What do you believe is the role of a university and a faculty to make the educational ecosystem evolve?
Prof. Kumar:Universities should transform lives, and teachers must constantly reinvent themselves. Educational leaders should read UGC guidelines and focus on making students skilled and employable. Faculty should act as facilitators, embracing flexibility and innovation. We must keep updated on UGC’s latest policies and programs.
Dr. Negi: Innovation culture is significant, especially as students struggle to find jobs even after obtaining degrees. What are your suggestions to promote this culture?
Prof. Kumar: The first step is to remain open-minded. As I mentioned earlier, our thinking has become conditioned by colonial frameworks. However, things are changing, and India is now the third-largest ecosystem for startups. We should aspire to become the second or even the first globally.
Dr. Negi: What changes have been made in recruitment and promotion policies in higher education?
Prof. Kumar: For the first time, we have made candidates with a 4-year degree followed by a PhD, eligible for the position of Assistant Professor. Additionally, those holding a Master’s in Engineering or Technology are exempted from the requirement to qualify for the UGC NET.
For promotions, instead of focusing solely on publications, faculty promotions would be considered for making start-up companies, file patents, or write books. We’re giving multiple avenues for faculty to showcase their capabilities to the world.
Dr. Negi: There have been discussions around land use regulations for universities. Could you explain the recent changes?
Prof. Kumar: Earlier, the requirement was 50 acres, but an expert committee reviewed this and found it excessive. We’ve reduced the land requirement to 20 acres, and in hilly areas, it’s now 10 acres. For open universities, we’ve brought it down to 5 acres, and we’ve received feedback that even 10 acres may be excessive in hilly areas. We will review and relook upon this requirement accordingly.
Dr. Negi: What is UGC’s strategy for the future?
Prof. Kumar:Our primary challenge is scaling up the recent reforms. For instance, out of 1,200 universities, only 200 have implemented the 4-year program. We’re pushing for more. We’re also discussing biannual admissions to ensure students don’t have to wait an entire year if they miss the regular admission cycle. Our focus is on preparing universities and motivating them to adapt to these changes.
Dr. Negi : Thank you for your insights sir!
Prof. Kumar: Thank you