Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan recently announced the UGC Regulations 2025, which set the minimum qualifications for hiring and promoting academic staff in universities and colleges. The goal is to improve the quality of higher education. NT KURIOCITY asks PhD holders and scholars for their take on this
NT KURIOCITY
The recently announced UGC Regulations 2025 has many noteworthy aspects to it, chief among these being the flexibility for those seeking to enter the teaching profession. Under the new guidelines, individuals can choose to teach subjects that they qualify for, based on their NET/SET qualifications, even if these subjects are different from their previous academic degrees. A Ph.D. specialisation is given preference. Another aspect is the shift from the traditional score-based shortlisting methods to a more holistic evaluation system. Under this, a broader range of qualifications, including ‘Notable Contributions,’ will also be taken into consideration.
I would like to share an experience that highlights the positive impact the new guidelines will have on the education system. I completed my Master’s in Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences from the University of Hyderabad and cleared the CSIR exam in Physical Sciences. However, my PhD applications to several IITs were rejected because I didn’t have a postgraduate degree in Physical Sciences. The new guidelines will allow students from diverse backgrounds to apply for PhDs and enable me to apply for an assistant professor position in the subject I appeared for in the NET exam. One key benefit is the flexibility to switch disciplines later in an academic career, promoting an interdisciplinary approach to research. This will help students explore new subjects or develop different interests. Also, the holistic evaluation for recruitment and promotion, which includes innovative teaching, contributions in Indian languages, digital content for MOOCs, and involvement in startups, expands opportunities for skill development. I would suggest that selection committees should have a balanced mix of experts and individuals from diverse backgrounds to ensure fairness.”
Ankit Singh, Ph.D scholar, Dona Paula
The UGC Regulations 2025 align with NEP 2020, strengthening Bhartiya-centric education by promoting Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS). A shift toward holistic evaluation over quantitative metrics recognises contributions in teaching innovation and community engagement, broadening opportunities for Ph.D students and faculty. However, challenges may arise in adapting to qualitative assessments and integrating traditional knowledge systems into modern curricula.
Dr. G. Shrinivas, deputy director, IGNOU Regional Centre, Goa
The 21st century has created a new world order with new challenges. These regulations address them, and it is heartening to see value given to achievements beyond teaching, such as online content and activities that promote the holistic development of students. I am hopeful that these regulations will shape a new generation of educators who will differ from their predecessors.”
Dr. B. S. Patil, associate professor, V. M. Salgaocar College of Law, Miramar
It is good that they are considering young talent, but removing UGC NET as the minimum eligibility for assistant professors will impact the quality of education. It will also demotivate candidates pursuing a Ph.D or those who have already submitted their thesis. A master’s degree holder without UGC NET may not be able to deliver the same level of effort and quality. In the future, this could also lead to corruption, allowing the selection of less talented or favoured candidates.”
Ravindra Sharma, Ph.D student
Under the new regulations, Ph.D students will have an advantage as they will be immediately eligible to apply for the post of assistant professor. However, direct appointments without NET/SET, based solely on a candidate having over 75%, are rare and questionable. How can a mere score, a Ph.D degree, or a theory-based exam like NET truly determine one’s ability to teach in a classroom? Many so-called ‘qualified’ teachers lack the necessary soft skills for effective teaching. A mandatory course on praxis-oriented soft skills should be incorporated to enhance the teaching-learning process.”
Dr. Glenis Mendonca, associate professor, Carmel College for Women, Nuvem
The UGC’s draft regulations have completely removed the requirement for any publication to earn a Ph.D. Without a doubt, this places those who earned their Ph.D. under previous UGC regulations at a disadvantage. Many researchers have put in years of effort to publish in reputable journals, yet their hard work now risks being disregarded. Universities, both existing and emerging, will find it easier to produce Ph.D. graduates, but the quality of their research will no longer be objectively measured by any authority in India or abroad. Recruitment in Indian universities and colleges will be left to the discretion of individuals who may not prioritise academic merit or quality. In summary, the removal of any publication requirement will broaden the scope of already-existing abuses in PhD research.”
Dr. Annie Rajan, associate professor, HoD of Department of Computer Science, DCT’s Dhempe College of Arts and Science, Miramar
