13 UG students suspended in Kovai for attacking PG student

13 UG students suspended in Kovai for attacking PG student

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 24.03.2025

Coimbatore : Thirteen first year undergraduate students of a private college here were suspended for assaulting a post graduate student in the college hostel on Saturday. The 13 students studying BE and B Tech at Nehru institute of technology near Thirumalayampalayam alleged the victim Haathi, a postgraduate student from Chennai studying second year M A Criminology in Nehru college of arts and science had stolen money from their hostel room. 

A video of the assault went viral on social media on Sunday. Preliminary inquiry revealed a group of BE and B Tech students brought Haathi to their hostel room, locked him up there and assaulted him. One of them also recorded the attack on video. The senior student was injured in the assault. According to deputy chief warden of the hostel Maheshwaran, the incident took place on March 20 night. The victim was held in the room throughout the night and was beaten. The harassment continued the following day as well, the internal investigation revealed. After being let out on March 21, he informed his parents, who visited the college hostel on March 22 and took him home. 

As the management got wind of the incident, an in- quiry was conducted and principal M Sivaraja suspended the 13 students. The injured student and the suspended students have been asked to appear before the college administration on Monday for further inquiry. After the internal investigation, the college management reported the incident to the police. The Madukkarai police have also begun a probe. Police said once the victim lodges a formal complaint, a case will be registered.

Fake faculty row: Anna univ to inspect all 440 colleges

Fake faculty row: Anna univ to inspect all 440 colleges 

Before Nod For Affiliation This Academic Year

Ragu.Raman@timesofindia.com 24.02.2025

Chennai : In the wake of last year’s fake faculty row, Anna University has decided to inspect all 440 engineering colleges in the state for granting affiliation for 2025-26. During the check, it will look into the permanently affiliated courses to rule out any malpractices. It will check various parameters including qualifications of the principal, faculty members, library, classrooms, labs, and admissions. Last year, top colleges were exempted from physical inspection. 

In a recent circular, the university asked colleges to submit biometric details of faculty members after authenticating them with Aadhaar through the Tamil Nadu e-Governance Agency and Unique Identification Authority of India. It also asked them to verify all certificates, including PAN and Aadhaar details, with originals. College chairpersons or secretaries of trusts were directed to submit an affidavit stating that all details submitted are true. It also mandated AICTE Faculty ID for all members. “Faculty qualifications, experience, scale of pay, and cadre ratio should be strictly followed as per AICTE norms to grant affiliation,” the circular from registrar J Prakash said. “Those pro grammes which have not fulfilled the stipulated affiliation requirements will be suspended or withdrawn without any further notice.” For the first time, the university sought details of all permanently affiliated courses to verify them.

“Anna University used to give permanent affiliation to courses if the college is offering the course for 10 years with better admission record and no prior punishment. However, it was found that some colleges misused the permanent affiliation and showed them as faculty members in other departments. So, it was decided to verify these courses also,” a source said. The last date for submission of applications for affiliation with a late fee for 2025-26 is Feb 28. AICTE Approval Process Handbook for 2025-26 allowed institutions to appoint up to 20% of faculty as Professors of Practice (PoP) — industry professionals with varying qualifications, including PhDs or BTech with significant industry experience. The university is yet to act against 2,500 faculty members found faking identities and working in multiple colleges at the same time. Some 30 colleges were involved. “There is a court case regarding POP qualifications. University is yet to action against the faculty members and colleges. Then only the physical inspection for 2025-26 will commence,” a source added.

VTU directs colleges to refund students’ fees

VTU directs colleges to refund students’ fees 

SruthySusan.Ullas@timesofindia.com 15.02.2025

Bengaluru : Following complaints about refund of fees to students in case of withdrawal of admissions, Visvesvaraya Technological University warned of action if colleges do not follow the directions of apex bodies on this matter. In a circular dated Feb 11, the university said it received many petitions and requests regarding refund of fees to students in case of withdrawal or cancellation of admissions.

 “The university had advised/instructed colleges to follow the norms of apex bodies. Despite that, the university is receiving such complaints. Hence, once again, it is hereby informed to heads of institutions to follow the directions of UGC, AICTE and VTU in this regard, failing which the university will be forced to initiate action against the college and will also report to AICTE, UGC and the state govt,” said the circular. As per UGC regulations for 2024-25, full refund of fees should be made in case of cancellation of admissions/migrations of students up to Sept 30, 2024, and with a deduction of not more than Rs 1,000 as processing fee up to Oct 31, 2024. For any admission schedule extending this date, the rules will be as follows: Students will get 100% if cancellation is 15 days or more before the formally notified last date of admission; students should get 90% for withdrawing less than 15 days before notified last date of admission; 80% for 15 days or less after last date of admission; 50% for 30 days or less, but mo re than 15 days after last date of admission, and no refund if cancellation is more than 30 days after formally notified last date of admission. “Students often struggle to get refund from colleges.

Not only do colleges not refund, but they also threaten to not return the original certificates. Some of them go to the extent of asking for full course fees,” said Mithesh Kumar Moodukonaje, founder of National Pre-University Students,  Parents and Teachers Association. “Students can email their complaint to UGC fee samadhan portal along with fees paid receipt, admission cancellation intimation, etc., marking the email ID of the college too,” he said

NAAC shifts to e-inspections, to start new accreditation models

NAAC shifts to e-inspections, to start new accreditation models 

Announces Immediate Halt To Physical Inspections

Hemali.Chhapia@timesofindia.com 09.02.2025

Mumbai : In a decisive move to eliminate corruption and streamline the accreditation process, the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) has announced an immediate halt to physical inspections of colleges. Accreditation teams will now conduct evaluations entirely online, replacing on-campus visits with virtual assessments. For universities, though, the transition will be hybrid — most inspections will take place remotely, but a select number of reviewers will still visit campuses to maintain some level of direct oversight. 

The decision follows the recent Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) arrests in the case involving Andhra Pradesh-based Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation (KLEF), where members of the institution’s management allegedly bribed NAAC peer visit inspectors to secure favourable ratings. “We decided to do all it takes to weed out elements of corruption. Cancelling physical visits will arrest the problem in a huge way,” said NAAC executive committee chairman Prof Anil Sahasrabudhe. “So many inspection visits take place every week, and it was very tough to monitor what transpired during these visits. Now, all this will be recorded.” 

NAAC director Ganesan Kannabiran called the shift to online inspection a “surgical strike” against corruption. “NAAC’s peer review system faced a challenging situation due to the recent CBI case. These are undesirable to the higher education system, and NAAC, being a quality assurance agency, is determined to eliminate such practices through definitive actions,” he said. The long-anticipated basic (binary) accreditation model, recommended by the K Radhakrishnan Committee, was set for launch in July 2024 but did not take off. 

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‘Power to appoint VCs must be with state govt, not governor’

 ‘Power to appoint VCs must be with state govt, not governor’ 

TALKING TO TOI 

The power of appointing VCs should rest entirely with the state govt, says Prof V Balakista Reddy, chairman of Telangana Council of Higher Education. He tells Nirupa Vatyam that new UGC draft regulations are a threat to federalism and a step towards corporatisation and commercialisation of universities. 

Excerpts from the interview:

 ■Can you explain the controversy on appointment of VCs? 

As per the UGC draft regulations, a committee must consist of three members. First, a nominee of the chancellor (in most state universities, it’s the governor); second, a nominee of the UGC chairperson, and third, a nominee from university’s apex body, such as the senate, syndicate, or executive council. This is problematic as it allows the power of appointing vice-chancellors to rest with the chancellor, thereby undermining the role of govts.

 ■What is TGCHE’s stand on the stand-off between the state and Centre on appointment of VCs? 

TGCHE believes that the composition of wsearch-cum-selection committee for VC appointments, dominated by nominees of the chancellor and UGC chairman, restricts the participation of the state. Presently, the state govt forms a three-member search committee and recommends three names to the chancellor/governor, who appoints the VC after consulting with the state govt. This draft is seen as an overreach into state jurisdiction, violating federal principles and reducing the authority of the states.

 ■Why has the TGCHE questioned the new draft regulation with reference to the qualifications for selection of VCs? 

The TGCHE believes that there is a dilution in the qualifications re quired for the selection of  VCs. Candidates for the position of VC must have prior experience of the university system, an understanding of the issues faced by students, faculty, and administrative staff, as well as sufficient knowledge of academics, research, and publications. The draft regulations suggest considering candidates from the corporate sector, public undertakings, and public policy, which indicates an intention to appoint corporate managers and bureaucrats to the administration of state-run institutions of higher education under the justification of innovation and global competitiveness. 

■Are there any recommendations to deal with the Centre-state conflicts over VC appointments? 

Yes, this stalemate can be addressed by following the recommendations of the Sarkaria and MM Punchhi Commissions on Centre-state relations. The Punchhi commission explicitly said that governors should not be vested with the power to appoint VCs, as such powers are not conferred upon them by the Constitution. It argued that involving governors in these appointments could result in controversies, public criticism, and conflicts regarding the functions and powers of the governor’s office and the state govt.

 ■What is the challenge in having seasoned bureaucrats as VCs in universities?

 There are two aspects to this issue. From a constitutional perspective, the Constitution emphasises the importance of education under the Directive Principles of State Policy (Articles 41 and 45), which focus on creating a system that promotes knowledge and excellence. The role of a VC is highly specialised and requires academic expertise, research experience, an understanding of education policies, and a comprehensive knowledge of the university system. These attributes cannot be expected from bureaucrats, who receive generalist training and are neither subject experts nor specialists. From a judicial perspective, the judiciary has emphasised that the position of VC should be held by an academic visionary rather than an administrative functionary. 

■What about the process of VC appointments in other countries?

 In Western countries, the process focuses on academic excellence, institutional autonomy, and merit-based selection. For example, in the United States, the equivalent role of university presidents is filled through a rigorous, merit-driven process. A board of trustees or regents, independent from the govt, oversees the selection, often relying on professional search committees that assess the candidates’ academic and administrative qualifications. Similarly, in the United Kingdom, VCs are chosen by university councils or governing bodies, with a strong  emphasis on academic expertise and strategic vision, and minimal govt involvement.

 ■What are the objections raised by the state council when it comes to the appointment of faculty?

The council has raised three major concerns regarding the qualifications and academic credentials of prospective candidates. Firstly, the UGC draft permits appointments based on clearing NET or being awarded a PhD in a subject without having pursued a graduation or master’s degree in that subject. This creates a scenario where candidates may lack an understanding of foundational concepts. Secondly, there appears to be a dilution of the importance of research and publication. Thirdly, the definition of ‘notable contribution’ for selection and promotion is vague and appears achievable by almost anyone. 

■What are your suggestions to resolve the ongoing crisis related to the UGC draft guidelines? 

This issue can be resolved and is not as complex as it is portrayed in the public sphere. The UGC must consult all stakeholders, maintaining a spirit of cooperative federalism. This is crucial, as the states play a substantial role in achieving the gross enrolment ratio in higher education.

Semiconductor courses needed in tierII and III HEIs for better outreach

Semiconductor courses needed in tierII and III HEIs for better outreach

Semiconductor expertise and AI skills can help students make cross disciplinary innovations 

Rajlakshmi.Ghosh@timesofindia.com  20.01.2024EDUCATION TIMES BANGALORE 

As the national and global demand for semiconductor talent continues to grow, the need for graduates to lead innovations crucial to India’s economic and technological aspirations, has become important. To meet this demand, the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), in addition to National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and the country’s premier technical institutes such as the IITs and IISc are introducing short-term minor programmes and skill-based courses to prepare tomorrow’s engineers for India’s burgeoning semiconductor ecosystem. Joining the ranks are students from polytechnic colleges, Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), private or government colleges and diploma holders who are making optimum use of these courses to make a career in the manufacturing sector. Reportedly, the semiconductor industry is set to create 1 million jobs in India by 2026.

“The semiconductor sector is a critical driver of technological innovation, and its demand for cutting-edge programmes stems from several factors that include rapid technological advancements, complexity of semiconductor manufacturing, demand for specialised skills, environmental and sustainability concerns, global competition and national security,” TG Sitharam, chairman, AICTE, tells Education Times. Key courses The AICTE has introduced two new courses to fulfil the objectives of the SEMICON India Mission and to make India a global hub for electronics manufacturing and design: Diploma in IC manufacturing and BTech/BE in Electronics Engineering (VLSI Design & Technology) apart from a minor degree in VLSI Design & Technology. “The Council has accorded approval to 629 institutions with 10,524 approved intakes during AY 2023-24 to commence PG/UG/Diploma level courses in VLSI/semiconductor-related domain,” Prof Sitharam informs. Down South, to bridge the skill gaps and enable students to work with emerging technology areas, IITM-Pravartak has analysed the domain areas where skilling is required, and then with the help of an industry expert developed the training content that will be UGC compliant. This has led to short-term minor programmes such as Comprehensive Electronics and Embedded system, Application Driven Electronics & Embedded Technology with IoT, Advanced Electronics Manufacturing with Power electronics (from the electronics stream), and Digital Manufacturing Practice (from the mechanical stream) being started recently along with Education Ministry’s SWAYAM Plus for engineering/diploma/science students and graduates. The aim is to provide semiconductor industry training with placement assistance for deserving students.

 “The programmes can be pursued while the student is pursuing BTech/MTech at IIT Madras or other technical colleges/institutes,” says Kavitha Gopal, senior consultant, IIT Madras Pravartak elaborating there is a good amount of awareness about these programmes among the students through social media reach outs and word of mouth, hence they see them as a good value addition to their career pathway which will be leading them to research studies/ placements or starting their own startup business

Anna univ to ban over 2K faculty members Move After They Faked Details, Were Found Working In Many Colleges

Anna univ to ban over 2K faculty members Move After They Faked Details, Were Found Working In Many Colleges

Ragu.Raman@timesofindia.com 15.01.2025

Chennai : Anna University is planning to ban more than 2,000 faculty members from engineering colleges for one to ten years for faking their details and working in multiple colleges. The university is likely to withhold affiliation of more than 30 engineering colleges and is planning to act against the principals. 

“Anna University syndicate discussed awarding punishment to the faculty members and engineering colleges involved in faking the faculty members' details,” a source said. As per AICTE norms, engineering colleges should employ faculty members in a 1:20 ratio. To reduce the cost, many colleges showed fake faculty members. Anti-corruption NGO Arappor Iyakkam found that 353 individuals were working in multiple colleges in the 2023-24 academic year. It was discovered that the faculty members and colleges used fake Aadhaar numbers so that they could work in multiple engineering colleges. University’s internal probe found that 2,000 faculty positions were filled with fake faculty members in 2024-25. One faculty member was found working in 32 engineering colleges. The university issued notices to more than 290 engineering colleges and more than 2,000 faculty members. Only 25% of faculty members appeared for the inquiry. 

The university proposed punishment for the faculty members and colleges. However, the syndicate referred the matter to a three-member high-level committee. Arappor Iyakkam convenor Jayaram Venkatesan urged the university to act against colleges and faculty members without delay. “Despite the passing of six months, there is no action so far. Punitive actions will prevent such malpractices. The responsibility must be fixed against the inspection teams of Anna University too. They should ask for proof like pay slip to know if the faculty members are employed by the college,” he said.

FDPs on cards as AICTE and DST take quantum leap

FDPs on cards as AICTE and DST take quantum leap 

Under the AICTE FDP scheme, faculty will get to visit industries to get hands-on training

Sonal.Srivastava@timesofindia.com 06.01.2025

To train faculty, develop infrastructure for quantum technologies, and create appropriate study materials for students is on the map charted by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and the Department of Science and Technology (DST), following the launch of the Undergraduate (UG) Minor Program in Quantum Technologies. The regulatory bodies will ensure faculty members have a solid understanding of quantum mechanics and technologies. They will provide financial support to conduct the Faculty Development Programs (FDPs) to institutions/individuals under the AICTE FDP scheme, which will facilitate faculty visits to industry/research labs for hands-on training. 

Meanwhile, the UG Minor course will be available starting from the 2025-26 Academic Year (AY), and students can opt for it from the fifth semester of the UG program, that is, the third year onwards. “The curriculum is designed to include practical projects encouraging students to collaborate directly with quantum startups. Students will have opportunities to work with startups through internships, fellowship programs and project-based themes. 

AICTE will facilitate networking events, hackathons, and innovation challenges where students undergoing this course can solve the real-world problems presented by startups. Thematic Hubs established under NQM will also serve as platforms for student-startup collaboration,” says TG Sitharam, chairman, AICTE. 

In the first phase, AICTE will designate the best 50 AICTE-approved institutions to run minor degree programs and establish quantum labs. “As per mutual collaboration with DST, the financial and technical support for creating quantum technology laboratories in the institutions will be provided by DST through their Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) established under NQM. AICTE will assist in mapping existing resources and facilitating the procurement of essential equipment through grants and funding programs. Institutions will also receive access to shared facilities in T-Hubs,” says Sitharam. Developing coursework FDPs will be initiated to upskill educators in quantum technologies, ensuring they are equipped to teach theoretical and practical components. Handson training sessions, recorded lectures, workshops, and online certifications will be conducted so faculty members can stay updated on the latest developments and trends in quantum technologies. 

The development of related textbooks and course materials on quantum technology for faculty and students and the creation of infrastructure and resources for quantum labs in institutions will be prioritized. "Plans are underway to develop specialized PG programs in quantum technologies,for which collaborations with leading research institutions and universities will be explored to design advanced coursework and interdisciplinary modules,” says Sitharam. "India can succeed in quantum technologies only if we have trained manpower. The biggest bottleneck in implementing this initiative is determining who will teach the courses and where the teaching materials will come from. We must ensure that all these resources are readily available. The NQM team has agreed to train faculty, and the program will begin soon. Elite institutions such as IISc Bangalore and IITs will also participate in this initiative," says Prof Rajive Kumar, member Secretary. AICTE.

Relief for DPharm students as exit exam deferred indefinitely

Relief for DPharm students as exit exam deferred indefinitely 

TIMES OF INDIA bhopal 02.01.2025

Nagpur : In a relief for diploma in pharmacy (DPharm) students across the country, Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) has allowed registration and issuance of licences to the 2022-23 batch after their exit exam, scheduled for Oct 2024, was deferred by National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) indefinitely, reports Sarfaraz Ahmed. 

NBEMS postponed DPharm Exit Examination (DPEE), comprising three papers, asking students to keep checking its website for updates. However, it didn’t provide any specific reason for the deferment, leaving the student community in lurch. In the absence of registration certificates and licences, the graduating batch of 2024 had been unable to work as pharmacists or start their own businesses. 

On Dec 31, PCI notified students that the exam had been deferred indefinitely and announced that it would allow registration and licensing for one year for all students. PCI had previously prohibited students from renewing their licences without passing the exit exam. “After months of waiting, registration is finally under way, and licences are being issued, allowing us to start our careers or businesses,” said a student, expressing gratitude towards PCI and the govt. The statutory body has written to Union health ministry, seeking its nod to amend regulation 6 of DPEE 2022 under section 10 of Pharmacy Act 1948 to hold just one paper, instead of three.

VTU revamps MTech curriculum, 3- way career path in final semester

VTU revamps MTech curriculum, 3- way career path in final semester

SruthySusan.Ullas@timesofindia.com .01.2025

 Bengaluru : Visvesvaraya Technological University has revamped the curriculum for MTech programmes, creating a three-way career path for students in the final semester. It has decided to offer the programmes as MTech in the main branch of study with specialisation in parentheses. The specialisations will be offered from the second semester. The new format will be launched from 2024-25, said vice-chancellor S Vidyashankar. This year, 2,301 students opted for MTech through Karnataka Examinations Authority. 

“Usually, MTech programmes come with various specialisations within each stream. For instance, there is MTech in machine design, thermal engineering, etc., within mechanical engineering. However, we noticed that colleges have to keep shifting between these courses depending upon the demand that year. It is a painstaking process to close one branch and open another one. Therefore, we decided to revamp the courses in such a way that we will have a main branch of study with a specialisation indicated in parentheses,” explained dean B Sadashiv Gowda. With this, irrespective of the specialisation, the students will study common subjects in the first semester. › 3 career paths, P 4 Students now have 3 career paths: VTU In the subsequent semesters, the students learn courses related to their specialisation. There are electives provided that allow students to learn the subjects of their interest. “So, it is possible for  an engineering institute to offer all these depending on the industry requirements. They need not close down or open a new course based on the specialisation,” he explained. 

Similarly, the university has also heralded changes in the final semester. Students will have three options in the final semester. Those interested in research will have the option to pursue it and submit a report. The other options are an internship, where students will go to industry and work, which might also result in placement. A third option is for those who do not want to take up research or internship but want to do courses in the institute itself. They can take more courses in the third semester and do project work in the fourth semester.

“So we have created three career paths depending on the student interests, location of the college, and industry-institute collaborations. The colleges can guide students in the right direction, creating a win win situation for all kinds of institutes in tier one, two, or three cities,” he said. The university wrote to the All-India Council of Technical Education about the changes, which duly approved them. It was later approved by the statutory bodies of the university.

AICTE to integrate AI into curricula of core engg branches

AICTE to integrate AI into curricula of core engg branches 

The newly launched Electrical Engineering UG curriculum would be considered a template to be followed by other core branches

Ayushi.Gupta1@timesofindia.com 30.12.2024

To revamp the core engineering branches and enhance their value by integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has planned to revise the curriculum soon. The tweaked curriculum will have AI included as interdisciplinary modules to emphasise AI applications specific to various domains, by understanding its ethical considerations and innovative practices. To build a future-ready workforce, the AICET has dedicated 2025 as the Year of Artificial Intelligence. Prof TG Sitharam, chairman, AICTE, says, “The AICTE plans to integrate AI into the curriculum of core engineering branches as interdisciplinary modules. 

The AICTE has already initiated the process by incorporating AI elements into the newly launched Electrical Engineering undergraduate curriculum, considering it as a model for further integrations across other core engineering branches. The comprehensive rollout of updated curricula for all branches is expected in 2025.” Meanwhile, the council also plans to launch certain schemes to help colleges in the implementation and inclusion of Research and Development on AI into the curricula of all engineering branches, adds Prof Sitharam. Implementation plan The AICTE has urged institutions to submit their respective AI implementation plans, which will be reviewed by the AICTE approval bureau, and the top submissions will be featured as benchmarks for other institutions. Prof Sitharam, says, “The AICTE has suggested colleges to form ‘AI Student Chapters’ under the nationwide initiative titled ‘AI for All: The Future Begins  Here’. The formation of student-driven hubs for innovation, and hosting workshops, hackathons, and guest lectures are some of the initiatives that colleges can indulge in. 

The AICTE will provide guidelines and resources for establishing these initiatives at institutions, ensuring their alignment with industry trends and ethical AI practices.” B Sathiyabhama, head, Computer Science and Engineering, Sona College of Techno logy in Salem, Tamil Nadu, says, “Given our current resources, we are prioritising AI initiatives that leverage existing infrastructure and expertise. The institution aims to introduce short-term certification courses on AI fundamentals for all engineering disciplines, utilising online platforms and inhouse expertise, establish AI labs that focus on low-cost experiments and projects, leveraging open-source AI frameworks, promote interdisciplinary AI projects that combine strengths from diverse departments, collaborate with industry partners to offer hands-on training and internships, ensuring students gain practical AI exposure, and initiate research on AI applications in niche areas including environmental monitoring in Civil Engineering and diagnostic tools in Biomedical Engineering.”

Hundreds of engg students hold stir as college withholds exam hall tickets

Hundreds of engg students hold stir as college withholds exam hall tickets 

JNTUH In-charge VC Demands An Explanation From Institute 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 20.12.2024

Hyderabad : Hundreds of final-year students from Sreenidhi Institute of Science and Technology in Ghatkesar staged a protest on Thursday after the college barred them from writing mid-semester exams due to fee reimbursement issues. The management was forced to postpone the exams, scheduled for Thursday, following the protests. Students expressed concerns not only about missing their exams but also about the potential impact on their future prospects, including the risk of being denied certificates. “Over 700 students have been denied hall tickets due to fee dues. Why should we suffer for govt’s mistake?” questioned one student. They added that they had no choice but to gather in front of the college to pressure the management into postponing the exams. 

The students claimed that while SC/ST students, who receive 100% fee reimbursement from the govt, were not affected, others — including those with merit scholarships —were being asked to pay part of the dues to receive hall tickets. “More than the mid-semester exams, we are worried that the management might use the same excuse during the final semester exams or at the time of graduation,” said another student, adding that the timing of the issue, with placement preparations underway, is troubling. Members of the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad joined the protest and demanded action against the college management.

“Not just this college, but many institutions are forcing students to pay fees or withholding certificates over fee dues. Many students have lost job and higher education opportunities because of the managements’ insensitivity. This needs to be stopped,” said J Dileep from ABVP. Following the protest, principal of the college Siva Reddy announced that the exams scheduled for Dec 19 and 20 would be postponed. JNTUH seeks explanation JNTUH in-charge vice chancellor Balakista Reddy has demanded an explanation from SNIST principal for withholding hall tickets. Reddy, also chairman of the Telangana council of higher education, instructed the principal to present all documents on Friday. He emphasized that colleges cannot deny hall tickets or delay exams for such issues and warned of strict action against non-compliant management.

Periyar University notificationfor Registrar, CoE posts differs from UGC norms: faculty, TNGCTA

Periyar University notificationfor Registrar, CoE posts differs from UGC norms: faculty, TNGCTA

It has been alleged that to prevent college teachers from applying for these posts, Periyar University issued a notification against the UGCrules. 

Faculty members allege that to appoint people who are close to the University administration, it has provided these norms to fill the posts; however, officials attached to the administration say that the notification was issued as per rule

M. Sabari  Salem 12.12.2024 

Faculty members of Periyar University and the Tamil Nadu Government Collegiate Teachers Association (TNGCTA) alleged that the notification issued by Periyar University for filling the posts of Registrar and Controller of Examinations (CoE) differs from the University Grants Commission (UGC) norms.

In the notification dated November 26, Periyar University invited applications for the posts of Registrar and CoE and prescribed qualifications as an academician not lower in the rank than that of a professor of a college/university. The age should have completed 55, but not more than 57 as on December 1, 2024 and should have a minimum total teaching experience of 20 years involving teaching/research or administrative responsibilities. The university asked to submit the application on or before December 16, 4 p.m. TNGCTA general secretary S. Suresh said that in the guidelines issued by the UGC on December 12, 2008, it said that for the posts of Registrar and CoE, the candidate should have at least 15 years of service as an assistant professor or eight years of service as an associate professor. All the universities had been following these UGC guidelines.

Guidelines

The Madurai Kamaraj University, in its notification dated December 7, 2024, for filling the posts of Registrar and CoE, followed these UGC guidelines. But the Periyar University notification differs from the UGC guidelines and asks only professors to apply for these posts.

To prevent college teachers from applying for these posts, Periyar University issued a notification against the UGC rules. The Tamil Nadu government should look into the issue and take steps to cancel the notification issued by the Periyar University administration, Mr. Suresh added.

Periyar University faculty members alleged that to appoint people who are close to the University administration, the University allegedly provided these norms to fill the posts.

Officials attached to the Periyar University administration said that the notification was issued as per rule, and in the past also, while the notification was issued by the university, this same set of norms was followed.

Periyar University Vice-Chancellor R. Jagannathan is not available for comments.

UGC/AICTE Retirement Age Regulations Not Binding On State University-Affiliated Institutions Without State Adoption : Supreme Court

UGC/AICTE Retirement Age Regulations Not Binding On State University-Affiliated Institutions Without State Adoption : Supreme Court

Yash Mittal

7 Dec 2024 3:14 PM

The Supreme Court on Friday (Dec. 6) held that amended UGC or AICTE regulations raising the retirement age to 65 years do not apply to institutions affiliated to State Universities where the State Government opts not to adopt those regulations. Such institutions must follow the retirement age followed in the State.

The bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Prasanna B. Varale heard the civil appeal filed by one P.J. Dharmaraj who was initially appointed as Lecturer, and Reader in Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (“JNTU”) and subsequently retired from the position of Director of Church of South India Institute of Technology (“CSIIT”) affiliated to JNTU, Telangana.

Two days after his retirement at the age of 60 years, the AICTE and UGC issued amended regulations, wherein the age of retirement was revised up to sixty-five years of age. Therefore the appellant claimed that the same benefit should be extended to him.

On the contrary, the Respondents argued that the appellant cannot claim the benefit of the amended age of retirement because the subsequent amendment to the UGC regulations has not been adopted by the State of Telangana and the revised age of sixty-five years for superannuation does not prevail as the norm in the State and in the JNTU with which CSIIT is affiliated.

Upon hearing the parties at length, Justice Nath in the judgment observed that when the age of retirement of teachers was fixed at 60 years then the appellant cannot be given a special treatment to consider his age of retirement at 65 years.

“The regulations governing the age of superannuation throughout the State, the JNT University and its affiliated colleges including CSIIT is sixty years of age and therefore, when the teachers of JNT University are only to continue up to the age of sixty years, the Appellant cannot be given special consideration. CSIIT is an affiliated Institute of JNT University. Its teachers cannot have their age of retirement more than that of the teachers of the affiliating University. It would create a serious anomaly, discrimination and inequality. If the State Government itself has not adopted the amended regulations, the same cannot be applicable to the CSIIT. Even CSIIT has not determined the age of retirement of teachers to be 65 years.”, the court observed.

Further, the Court found that the appellant worked only in an administrative position and was not able to prove that he discharged the teaching services before becoming Director, CSIIT. Therefore, the UGC or AICTE regulation would not apply to the appellant, as those regulations only applies to those who qualify as teachers and are discharging classroom teaching duties.

“Any other way, the Appellant is not a teacher and was only involved in administrative work with CSIIT. The Appellant has not led any evidence until now to prove that he qualifies as a teacher after becoming Director. AICTE and UGC regulations are applicable only to those who qualify as teachers and are discharging classroom teaching duties.”, the court said.

Accordingly, the appeal was dismissed.

Case Title: P.J. DHARMARAJ VERSUS CHURCH OF SOUTH INDIA & ORS.

Citation : 2024 LiveLaw (SC) 958

UG, PG aspirants can seek admission in any discipline irrespective of subject previously studied: UGC

UG, PG aspirants can seek admission in any discipline irrespective of subject previously studied: UGC

The changes aim to set a new standard for the awarding of UG and PG degrees, ensuring that institutions can meet the diverse needs of today's students.

The UGC head office in New Delhi.File photo | PTI

Kavita Bajeli-Datt

Updated on:

05 Dec 2024, 4:15 pm

NEW DELHI: Twice a year admission, multiple entry and exit options, and greater flexibility for admission in any discipline of undergraduate programme or postgraduate are some of the standout aspects of the draft regulations announced on Thursday by the University Grants Commission (UGC).

The changes aim to set a new standard for the awarding of UG and PG degrees, ensuring that institutions can meet the diverse needs of today's students.

Speaking to The New Indian Express, UGC Chairman, Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar said, “The UGC Draft (Minimum Standards of Instructions in the Award of UG and PG Degrees) Regulations 2024 aims to transform higher education in India by introducing greater flexibility, removal of disciplinary regicide, inclusivity, and multidisciplinary learning opportunities for students.”

He said these regulations facilitate biannual admissions for higher education institutions (HEIs) if they are prepared to introduce them, allowing students to enrol twice yearly – in July/August and January/February.

"The regulations incorporate multiple entry and exit provisions, recognition of prior learning, and the flexibility to pursue two UG/PG programs simultaneously. We have also decoupled eligibility for UG and PG admissions from the rigid discipline-specific requirements of school education," he said.

Under these regulations, he added that students can choose to study in any program irrespective of their past disciplinary qualifications if they demonstrate competency by clearing the relevant entrance examinations.

He further said that recognizing the diverse learning modes promoted by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, these regulations provide autonomy to HEIs to determine student attendance requirements, ensuring they align with evolving academic needs.

Moreover, students will now have the option to earn 50% of their credits in their major discipline. In contrast, the remaining credits can be allocated to skill development, apprenticeships, or multidisciplinary subjects, fostering holistic development.

"With these reforms, we ensure that Indian higher education evolves to meet global standards while staying rooted in inclusivity and adaptability to diverse learner needs," he added.

The draft also states that irrespective of the disciplines taken by a student in class 12 or UG, a student is eligible for admission in any discipline of the UG programme or PG programme if the student qualifies for the National or university-level entrance examination in the discipline of the UG/PG programme.

Considering the diverse learning modes and holistic and multidisciplinary learning opportunities suggested by NEP 2020, HEIs shall decide on the minimum attendance requirement of students in different programmes with the approval of their statutory bodies.

An undergraduate degree lasts three or four years, and a postgraduate degree generally lasts one or two years.

However, the duration of an undergraduate degree can be shorter or longer. Key provisions of the Accelerated Degree Programme (ADP) and Extended Degree Programme (EDP) are applicable only at the undergraduate level.

HEIs can earmark up to 10% of sanctioned intake for ADP with no cap for EDP.

The HEI-constituted committee will evaluate a student's credit-completing potential based on their performance in the first or second semester and make recommendations.

Also, students shall have the option to choose ADP/EDP either at the end of the first semester or the second semester and not beyond that.

In the ADP/EDP, students will follow the same curriculum content and total credits prescribed for the programme for a standard duration. The only change will be in the duration of the programme.

The number of courses to be completed in each semester will be more or less according to the duration opted by the students, the draft said.

The ADP and EDP degrees will contain a self-contained note stating that the academic requirements required in a standard duration have been completed in a shortened or extended duration.

Students completing a four-year undergraduate degree (Hons./Hons. with Research) in relevant subjects (level 6, e.g. B.Sc. Hons. in Physics, B.Sc. Hons. in Biology, B.Sc. Hons. in Mathematics) and students completing a four-year undergraduate degree (level 6, e.g. B.E., B. Tech., etc.) shall be eligible for the 2-year/4 semester postgraduate programme (level 7, e.g. M.E., M.Tech. etc.), the draft stated.

The draft also said that if the HEIs fail to comply with the regulations, action will be taken.

In the first step, the Commission shall constitute an enquiry committee to investigate the violations. Suppose the Commission's enquiry committee establishes the violations, then in that case, the HEI shall be either debarred from participating in UGC schemes, debarred from offering degree programmes, or debarred from offering ODL and online mode programmes. They can also be removed from the list of HEIs maintained under Section 2(f) and 12B of UGC Act 1956.

Furthermore, UGC may take additional punitive actions per the Commission's decision on a case-to-case basis.

"Government departments, private organizations, and recruiting agencies like UPSC/State Service Commission, etc., should treat the degrees from ADP and EDP on par with degrees with standard duration," it added.

KEA staffer shared data of students with seat-blocking scamsters: Cops 10 Suspects In 10 Days Of Police Custody

KEA staffer shared data of students with seat-blocking scamsters: Cops 10 Suspects In 10 Days Of Police Custody 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 04.12.2024

Bengaluru : A staff assistant working in Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA), which oversees admission to professional courses in the state, shared the details of 150 students eligible to land select engineering seats with three outsiders. They used the data and masterminded the seat-blocking scam during 2024-25 admissions, investigations have revealed. The outsiders and their associates entered options in the students’ names without their knowledge and the seats allotted to them fell vacant as the candidates did not report to the colleges. 

The unfilled seats were later transferred to respective colleges to be filled up under the management quota, multiple sources privy to the developments said. Police have arrested the KEA staffer, Avinash BS, 36, of KN Extension, Yeshwantpur; the three outsiders who ran the racket — Sriharsha TM, 42, of JP Nagar III Phase; Prakash SR, 4 and Puneet SL, 27, from Kadur, Chikkamagaluru — and the trio’s associates, Shashikumar SK, 34 and Purushottam R, 24, from Kadur and Ravishankar SC, 56, from Satanur in Kanakapura; Tilak RG, 60, from Seshadripuram and BTM Layout residents Noushad Abbas, 42 and Dilshad Alam, 33. 

The 10 accused were produced before a local court in the city Monday and were taken into 10 days of police custody. City police commissioner B Dayananda said KEA officials lodged a complaint, accusing miscreants of blocking seats and illegally handing them over to the managements of BMS Engineering College, Akash Institute of Engineering and Technology and New Horizon College of Engineering. “We began the investigation with the IP address used by the miscreants to steal the login names and passwords of 52 candidates,” he said. DCP (north) Saidulu Adavath told TOI that they have to question the management of three colleges. 

“Prima facie, it is proven that over 150 engineering seats have been blocked by the suspects. What happened after the seats were handed over to the college, we have to investigate,” he said. Rs 2 lakh per seat On how the racket operated, a senior police officer said that Sriharsha runs a job consultancy in Dollars Colony, Sanjaynagar. With Avinash’s help, he stole data of candidates who did not appear even after the third round of counselling. “Data was shared with Prakash, who illegally using login IDs and passwords, would enter their preferred colleges and block the govt quota seats in their name. In this way, the accused blocked 30 seats in BMS College, seven in Akash and 15 in New Horizon,” a senior police officer explained. 

Police further said, “Avinash claims that he was promised Rs 2 lakh per seat and Sriharsha claims a few persons from private colleges promised them around Rs 3 lakh per seat. They landed in custody just a day ago. We need to check their bank accounts.” Another senior cop said they will start questioning the college management officials, once they get detailed statements from the 10 suspects. According to sources, the accused set four mobile phones and two laptops they had used in the crime on fire. Police seized some burnt remnants of the devices. 

WHAT IS SEAT BLOCKING? 

During counselling, students can enter their preferred college choices. Once the allotment results are announced, students can accept the allotted seat, leave it, or wait for an upgrade in the next round. When students keep the seat until the final round and yet don’t report to college, the seat goes to management, which can offer it to anyone of their choice at a much higher fee. If the student surrenders the seat, it goes back into the pool and a deserving student can pick it up. In this case, a KEA official and his associates stole the credentials of students to keep the seats blocked until the last round.

HOW THE SCAM CAME TO LIGHT Seven repeater students approached KEA, claiming that they were unable to participate in the counselling this year. KEA pointed out that it’s because they selected seats last year but failed to report to colleges. The students denied it. They vowed that they didn’t participate in counselling last year. This raised suspicion. KEA checked the status of seats opted by them and found out that someone else had used their

TN forms panel to revise block grant to 10 state univs

TN forms panel to revise block grant to 10 state univs

Ragu.Raman@timesofindia.com 04.12.2024

Chennai : In a first step to revive financially struggling state universities, the state higher education department formed a seven-member committee to revise block grant to 10 state universities, including the University of Madras and Madurai Kamaraj University. Block grant is the funding from the state govt to all state universities to cover the salary of the sanctioned posts by the govt. Many state universities are struggling to pay salaries and pensions to their staff and retired staff members due to insufficient funds. 

The committee, headed by secretary (expenditure), will include the commissioner of technical education, commissioner of collegiate education, additional secretary (finance), deputy secretary (universities) of the higher education department, director-general of audit or his representative, and member-secretary of Tamil Nadu State Council for Higher Education as members. The committee was given three months to determine the revision of block grants from 2025-26. “They will consider staff strength (teaching, non-teaching) sanctioned by govt, income and expenditure trend analysis, net deficit, scale of pay recommended by state pay commission and University Grants Commission and norms on faculty-students ratio,” a govt order issued by higher education secretary K Gopal said. 

“Though govt is not obliged to fund for salary or pension of the university suggesting a framework for sustenance of the universities,” the order added. The committee constituted by the State Planning Commission to evaluate the financial position of state universities recommended revising the block grant once in five years for all state universities. The block grant was previously revised in 2015-16. “The state universities are burdened by pension liabilities. The corpus fund of the University of Madras is not even able to cover 50% of pension liabilities. Other universities like Madurai Kamaraj University are also facing the same problem,” said P Duraisamy, former vice-chancellor of Madras University. “This move may help to resolve the financial crisis to some extent. 

However, they have to form a committee to resolve financial issues of state universities and suggest alternative ways for generating revenue,” he added. The order also asked all registrars of state universities to submit the details for fixing the block grant. State govt is not giving block grant to Anna University and Tamil Nadu Teacher Education University citing surplus revenue. Professors from Anna University said the university’s revenue declined following the decision to give all pass to students who had arrears. “The university used to generate ₹400 crore by conducting arrear exams. Without compensating for the revenue loss, the state govt declared all pass during 2020. We will also meet the fate of other universities if state govt does not give block grants,” said a professor of the university .

‘Appointments in architecture dept violate UGC, COA rules’

‘Appointments in architecture dept violate UGC, COA rules’ 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 25.11.2024 

Vadodara : Prof Satish Pathak of M S University has filed a complaint with chief minister Bhupendra Patel against university vicechancellor Prof Vijay Kumar Srivastava. Pathak has alleged that Srivastava appointed five persons as “professors of practice” in the architecture department by violating statutory provisions. Pathak stated that the appointments violate the guidelines of the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Council of Architecture (COA). 

The architecture department is part of MSU’s Faculty of Technology and Engineering (FTE). The department of architecture, like architecture colleges in the country, is regulated by COA. “Like the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) is the regulatory body when it comes to technology and engineering colleges, COA is the regulatory body for architecture colleges. Currently, COA has no provision on the appointment of professors of practice,” he stated in his complaint.

The complaint also states that according to the UGC norms, the number of professors of practice in a higher education institute, at any point in time, should not exceed 10% of the posts sanctioned in the institute. “When it comes to the department of architecture, there are 17 sanctioned posts. These include three posts of professors, six posts of associate professors, and eight posts of assistant professors. Against this sanctioned strength, only one in the form of the current head of department is filled while another teacher retired two years ago. This leaves 16 posts vacant,” he said. “So, appointing five ‘professors of practice’ is not just a violation of the COA provisions but also a violation of UGC guidelines.” Pathak alleged that these appointments were done while cutting short the number of temporary  teaching positions, some of whom were teaching in the department for a long time. He demanded a thorough inquiry into the appointments.

AU clarifies stance on outsourcing recruitment

AU clarifies stance on outsourcing recruitment 

TIMES NEWS NETWORK 23.11.2024 

Chennai : After facing backlash over a circular directing deans and department heads at Anna University to recruit temporary faculty members and non-teaching staff through outsourcing, the university has issued a revised circular saying only non-teaching staff would be recruited through outsourcing. A statement from the university on Friday claimed that the earlier circular was issued by mistake.

 “According to the resolution passed by the syndicate and finance committee, it was approved to recruit nonteaching faculty members through outsourcing. However, Anna University never took a decision to appoint faculty members through out sourcing,” Anna University registrar J Prakash said in a release. He said the mistake happened due to oversight while issuing the circular to the departments and university campuses. In a Nov 20 circular, Anna University had announced that new engagement of temporary teaching and non-teaching staff members on daily wages or consolidated pay should be done through a manpower agency only. 

The circular also said the authorities should be inforned about the surplus of temporary staff so that they may be allotted to other departments where there is a need for manpower. PMK leader Anbumani Ramadoss welcomed the announcement of Anna Uni versity. He said the revised circular was a victory for the PMK, which had condemned the move to recruit temporary faculty through outsourcing. However, he said the university administration is trying to cover up the issue by stating the announcement of recruiting faculty members through outsourcing was just an error