UGC Bars Three Rajasthan Universities from Admitting Ph.D. Students for Five Years
The UGC also clarified that any Ph.D. degrees awarded by these universities during this time would not be recognized for higher education or employment purposes.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has taken decisive action against three universities in Rajasthan—OPJS University (Churu), Sunrise University (Alwar), and Singhania University (Jhunjhunu)—for failing to uphold the integrity of Ph.D. programs. These institutions have been barred from enrolling new Ph.D. students for the next five academic years, from 2025-26 to 2029-30.
In its public notice, UGC stated:“We urge prospective students and their families to exercise due diligence when selecting a university for doctoral studies. Verify the UGC recognition status of the program and institution before applying. The UGC is dedicated to ensuring that the Ph.D. degree remains a mark of genuine scholarly achievement and research excellence.”
This decision follows an investigation by a UGC Standing Committee tasked with monitoring the compliance of universities with UGC Ph.D. Regulations. The committee identified significant lapses in academic norms and regulatory adherence in these universities. Despite being given an opportunity to explain their non-compliance, the responses provided by the institutions were deemed unsatisfactory.
UGC's Directive and Implications
As a result, the UGC has directed these universities to:
Immediately discontinue enrolling Ph.D. students.
Cease all admissions to Ph.D. programs during the specified five-year period.
The UGC also clarified that any Ph.D. degrees awarded by these universities during this time would not be recognized for higher education or employment purposes.
Advisory for Prospective Students
The UGC notice emphasizes the importance of verifying the recognition status of institutions before applying for doctoral programs. It serves as a warning to all universities to maintain rigorous academic standards, underscoring that any deviation will face strict consequences.
This unprecedented move reinforces the UGC's commitment to preserving the credibility of higher education in India and sends a strong message to other universities to adhere to academic integrity.
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Abhay an alumnus of IIMC and Delhi University, has over a decade long experience of reporting on various beats of journalism. During his free time he prefers listening to music or play indoor and outdoor games.