New Delhi, January 6, 2025 — In a landmark move set to redefine 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. The announcement was made during a prestigious event in New Delhi, which also marked the inauguration of UGC’s new state-of-the-art auditorium, Pushpagiri.

Addressing the audience, Shri Pradhan emphasized the transformative potential of these draft regulations, stating that they are designed to infuse innovation, inclusivity, flexibility, and dynamism into India’s higher education landscape. “These reforms will empower educators, enhance academic standards, and pave the way for educational excellence,” he remarked, lauding the team behind the regulations for aligning them with the ethos of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Key Highlights of the Draft Regulations

1. Flexibility in Qualifications
   • Candidates can pursue teaching in subjects qualified through NET/SET, even if they differ from their prior academic degrees.
   • Ph.D. specialization will receive priority during appointments.
2. Promotion of Indian Languages
   • Encourages the use of Indian languages in academic publications and degree programs, reinforcing the country’s linguistic heritage.
3. Holistic Evaluation
   • Eliminates score-based shortlisting, focusing instead on notable contributions, research, and teaching excellence.
4. Inclusive Recruitment
   • Dedicated pathways for experts in arts, sports, and traditional disciplines.
   • Opportunities for sportspersons, including those with disabilities, to enter academia.
5. Enhanced Governance
   • Revised selection process for Vice-Chancellors, expanding eligibility and ensuring transparency.
6. Simplified Promotion Criteria
   • Streamlined processes emphasize teaching, research output, and academic contributions.
7. Focus on Professional Development
   • Faculty development programs to encourage continuous learning and skill enhancement.

Understanding the UGC Regulations 2025: Key Highlights

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released the draft of the UGC (Minimum Qualifications for Appointment and Promotion of Teachers and Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges and Measures for the Maintenance of Standards in Higher Education) Regulations, 2025. ​ This comprehensive document outlines the qualifications, experience, and procedures for the appointment and promotion of academic staff in higher education institutions (HEIs) across India. ​ Here are the key highlights:

1. Scope and Application

• Title and Application: These regulations are titled the UGC Regulations 2025 and apply to all universities and colleges established under Central, Provincial, or State Acts, as well as institutions deemed to be universities. ​
• Implementation Date: The regulations come into force from the date of notification, with the revision of pay effective from January 1, 2016. ​

2. Minimum Qualifications and Experience ​

• Assistant Professor: Requires a UG degree with at least 75% marks or a PG degree with at least 55% marks and a Ph.D. Alternatively, a PG degree with 55% marks and qualification in NET/SET is acceptable.
• Associate Professor: Requires a UG degree with 75% marks or a PG degree with 55% marks and a Ph.D., along with a minimum of eight years of teaching/research experience and notable contributions in specified areas.
• Professor: Requires a UG degree with 75% marks or a PG degree with 55% marks and a Ph.D., with at least ten years of teaching/research experience, notable contributions, and supervision of doctoral candidates. ​

3. Special Provisions for Certain Disciplines

Yoga, Music, Performing Arts, Visual Arts, and Traditional Indian Art Forms: Candidates can qualify with a UG degree and professional experience, provided they meet specific criteria for professional achievement and teaching ability. ​

4. Librarian and Physical Education Cadres ​

• Assistant Librarian: Requires a UG or PG degree in Library Science or a relevant discipline with 75% or 55% marks respectively, and a Ph.D. or NET/SET qualification. ​
• Director of Physical Education and Sports: Requires a UG or PG degree in Physical Education and Sports with 75% or 55% marks respectively, a Ph.D., and notable contributions in specified areas. ​

5. Career Advancement Scheme (CAS) ​

Eligibility for Promotion: Faculty members can be promoted under CAS based on their service duration, notable contributions, and research publications. Specific criteria are outlined for each academic level. ​

6. Selection Committees

Composition: Selection committees for various academic positions include the Vice-Chancellor, external subject experts, and other relevant members. ​ The quorum and inclusion of representatives from SC/ST/OBC/Minority/Women/Persons with Disabilities categories are mandated.

7. Principal and Vice-Chancellor Appointments

• Principal: Requires a Ph.D. and significant teaching/research experience, with a tenure of five years and eligibility for reappointment for one more term.
• Vice-Chancellor: Requires distinguished academic qualifications, administrative and leadership capabilities, and a minimum of ten years of experience as a professor or at a senior level in relevant fields. ​ The selection process involves a Search cum Selection Committee. ​

8. Contractual Appointments

Contract Basis: Teachers may be appointed on a contract basis for a maximum of six months against vacant sanctioned positions, with qualifications and selection procedures similar to regular appointments. ​

9. Professor of Practice ​

Engagement: HEIs can engage experts from industries or other professions as Professors of Practice, not exceeding 10% of the sanctioned posts. ​

10. Consequences of Violation ​

Penalties: HEIs violating these regulations may face debarment from UGC schemes, offering degree programs, and other punitive actions. ​

A Step Towards ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’

The Minister expressed confidence that the draft regulations will drive the country closer to the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ by fostering quality education and research. Stakeholders have been invited to provide feedback on the draft, which is accessible online for public consultation.

Celebrating India’s Heritage: The Inauguration of Pushpagiri

Shri Pradhan also commended UGC’s decision to name its new auditorium Pushpagiri in honor of Odisha’s ancient educational hub. Highlighting the cultural and intellectual heritage of Pushpagiri, he expressed hope that the venue would become a center for vibrant academic discourse and intellectual growth.

Public Consultation Open

The UGC has invited feedback and suggestions from stakeholders until February 5, 2024. The final version of the regulations is expected to usher in transformative changes in the academic ecosystem, ensuring transparency, inclusivity, and excellence in India’s education system.

For more information and to access the draft, visit UGC Draft Regulations 2025.

This bold move by the Ministry of Education and UGC signifies a new era for Indian academia, balancing tradition with modernity and inclusivity with excellence.

For more detailed information, refer to the full UGC Regulations 2025 document:

Draft Regulation Minimum Qualifications for Appointment and Promotion of Teachers and Academic Staff in Universities and Colleges and Measures for the Maintenance of Standards in HE Regulations 2025