The University Grants Commission has debarred three universities in Rajasthan from enrolling scholars under the Ph.D. program for the next five years i.e. from the academic year 2025-26 to 2029-30. These universities have been directed to immediately discontinue enrolling Ph.D. students. The three universities are OPJS University in Churu, Sunrise University in Alwar, and Singhania University in Jhunjhunu.
M. Jagadesh Kumar, Chairman of UGC, said: “Universities should be committed to maintaining the highest standards in PhD programs. UGC will take appropriate action against institutions that fail to follow UGC’s PhD regulations. We are also in the process of checking the quality of PhD programs in a few other universities. If they are found to violate the PhD regulations, action will be taken against them too. It is necessary to single out such erring institutions and prevent them from admitting PhD students. We should ensure that the integrity and global reputation of Indian higher education remain uncompromised.”
A standing committee had been constituted by the UGC to monitor whether universities are following the procedure and awarding Ph.D. degrees in accordance with the UGC regulations. One of the mandates of this standing committee is to suggest corrective measures and recommend action to be taken against erring universities.
After evaluating the data submitted by the universities, the standing committee has found that the three Rajasthan universities did not follow the provisions of the UGC Ph.D. Regulations and also the academic norms for the award of Ph.D. degrees. These universities were given an opportunity to explain why they failed to comply with the provisions of the UGC Ph.D. regulations, but the responses received were not found satisfactory, the UGC has communicated.
The UGC has advised prospective students and parents not to take admission in the Ph.D. program offered by the above three Universities from now onwards. In the absence of UGC approval, Ph.D. awarded by the above three universities shall not be treated recognized or valid for the purpose of higher education and employment.
