Shri Dharmendra Pradhan Unveils Draft UGC Guidelines on Minimum Qualifications for Appointment & Promotion of Teachers and Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges, and Measures for Upholding Standards in Higher Education

Union Minister for Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, unveiled the draft UGC (Minimum Qualifications for Appointment & Promotion of Teachers and Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges, and Measures for the Maintenance of Standards in Higher Education) Regulations, 2025, today in New Delhi. Additionally, he inaugurated ‘Pushpagiri’, the newly constructed auditorium at UGC. The event was attended by Shri Sunil Kumar Barnwal, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Education; Prof. M. Jagadesh Kumar, Chairman, UGC; heads of educational institutions, academicians, Ministry officials, and other esteemed guests.

In his address, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan highlighted that these draft reforms and guidelines aim to infuse innovation, inclusivity, flexibility, and dynamism across all facets of higher education. He emphasized that these initiatives would empower teachers and academic staff, strengthen academic standards, and lead the way towards achieving educational excellence. He also extended his congratulations to the UGC team for formulating the Draft Regulations and Guidelines in alignment with the vision of NEP 2020.

The Minister noted that the Draft Regulations, 2025, have been made available for public feedback, suggestions, and consultations. He expressed confidence that the final version of these regulations would be published soon by UGC, triggering transformative changes in the education system and contributing to the realization of Viksit Bharat 2047, driven by quality education and research.

Shri Pradhan also praised the UGC for honoring Odisha's exceptional intellectual heritage by naming their newly inaugurated auditorium 'Pushpagiri.' He expressed that it was a source of immense pride and personal joy for him. The Minister highlighted that Pushpagiri in Jajpur, Odisha, had historically been a center of knowledge and enlightenment, and commended the UGC for this significant step in reconnecting Bharat’s intellectual heritage with the present era. He expressed hope that this modern auditorium would become a center for lively intellectual discussions, fostering bright futures.

In his address, Shri Sunil Kumar Barnwal acknowledged that these regulations would substantially improve the quality of teaching and learning across higher education institutions. He also emphasized the Ministry's commitment to supporting the effective implementation of these regulations nationwide.

About the Regulations

The Draft UGC (Minimum Qualifications for Appointment & Promotion of Teachers and Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges, and Measures for the Maintenance of Standards in Higher Education) Regulations, 2025, provide universities with greater flexibility in appointing and promoting academic staff.

These draft regulations and guidelines are available for public consultation, inviting comments, suggestions, and feedback from stakeholders at the following link:

Draft Regulations PDF

Key Highlights of the Regulations

• Flexibility: Candidates can pursue teaching careers in subjects they qualify for with NET/SET, even if the subject differs from their previous degrees. Ph.D. specialisation will be prioritized.

• Promoting Indian Languages: The regulations encourage the use of Indian languages in academic publications and degree programs.

• Holistic Evaluation: The regulations aim to move away from score-based short-listing, focusing on a broader range of qualifications, including "Notable Contributions."

• Diverse Talent Pool: Dedicated recruitment pathways will be created for experts in arts, sports, and traditional disciplines.

• Inclusivity: The regulations offer opportunities for accomplished sportspersons, including those with disabilities, to join the teaching profession.

• Enhanced Governance: The selection process for Vice-Chancellors will be revised with expanded eligibility criteria to ensure transparency.

• Simplified Promotion Process: The criteria for promotions will be streamlined, emphasizing teaching, research output, and academic contributions.

• Focus on Professional Development: Teachers will be encouraged to continuously improve their skills through faculty development programs.

• Enhanced Transparency and Accountability: The regulations aim to promote transparency in recruitment, promotion, and the handling of grievances.