UGC proposes revised guidelines for teachers and academic staff; public feedback invited

UGC Draft Guidelines 2025: Revised Teacher Qualifications, Promotions, and Leave Policies Unveiled

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released a draft of the revised guidelines for the "Minimum Qualifications for Appointment and Promotion of Teachers and Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges." The draft was unveiled by the Minister of Education, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, on January 6, 2025, and is now available for public consultation on the UGC website. Stakeholders can provide feedback until February 5, 2025, via email at draft-regulations@ugc.gov.in. Here's Direct link of the UGC draft regulations

Key Highlights of the UGC Draft Regulations

Revised Qualifications: The draft specifies updated qualifications and experience criteria for positions ranging from Assistant Professor to Vice-Chancellor across disciplines such as arts, sciences, engineering, and physical education.

Career Advancement Scheme (CAS): Enhanced criteria for promotions, emphasizing research contributions, digital learning resources, and community engagement. A Ph.D. remains mandatory for higher academic positions.

Teacher Responsibilities: Updated professional ethics for educators include avoiding plagiarism, promoting inclusivity, and contributing to the national education framework.

Cadre Ratios and Probation: A structured ratio for academic positions and revised probation policies to ensure accountability and quality standards.

Leave Provisions: Introduction of updated leave policies, including maternity, childcare, and study leave, along with allowances for sabbatical and professional development.

Physical Fitness and Indigenous Sports: New norms for physical education staff, promoting indigenous games and inclusive sports practices.

The draft aims to enhance academic standards, foster innovative research, and improve administrative efficiency in higher education. Institutions are expected to align their policies with the new guidelines within six months of their implementation.

For more details, visit the UGC website - ugc.gov.in.