In a landmark decision, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has revised the eligibility criteria for the recruitment and promotion of Assistant Professors in higher education institutions across India. The new guidelines, unveiled by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on January 6, 2025, eliminate the mandatory requirement of clearing the National Eligibility Test (NET) for appointment to entry-level faculty positions.
Focus on Flexibility and Inclusivity
The revised norms align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasizing flexibility, inclusivity, and a multidisciplinary approach to faculty recruitment. The draft regulations aim to eliminate the “rigidity” in existing eligibility requirements and encourage a broader spectrum of candidates with diverse academic backgrounds to enter academia.
“These reforms will infuse innovation, inclusivity, flexibility, and dynamism in every aspect of higher education,” said Pradhan during the announcement at the UGC headquarters in Delhi. Academicians have welcomed the move, describing it as a progressive step towards strengthening India’s higher education landscape.
Jagadesh Kumar, UGC Chairperson, highlighted that the revised guidelines prioritize contributions to knowledge and community over rigid qualifications. “The goal is to give faculty members the freedom and flexibility to excel in areas they are passionate about,” Kumar remarked, as reported by PTI.
Key Changes in the Draft Norms
The draft guidelines introduce several changes to the existing framework, replacing the 2018 regulations:
- NET No Longer Mandatory for Entry-Level Posts:
Universities can now recruit candidates based on their PhD qualifications and other criteria, without requiring NET clearance. - Multidisciplinary Eligibility:
Individuals who clear the NET in a subject different from their previous academic specialization can teach the subject they qualified for. - Flexibility in Subject Criteria:
Candidates with NET/SET qualifications in subjects other than their graduation degree can apply for Assistant Professor roles in the subject of their qualifications. - PhD Essential for Promotions:
While NET is no longer a requirement for entry-level roles, a PhD remains mandatory for promotions to Associate Professor and Professor positions. - Assessment Beyond API System:
The Academic Performance Indicator (API) system for faculty promotions has been replaced. Selection committees will now assess candidates on a broader range of contributions, including:- Innovation in teaching
- Technology development
- Entrepreneurship
- Creation of digital learning resources
- Contributions to community and societal welfare
- Promotion of Indian languages and knowledge systems
- Sustainability practices
- Supervision of internships, projects, or startups
A Paradigm Shift in Higher Education Recruitment
The revised norms signify a shift from qualification-based rigidity to a performance-driven approach, fostering an academic environment that values creativity and impact. Experts have praised the guidelines for their potential to attract diverse talent and improve the quality of education.
Reactions from the Academic Community
Academicians have largely lauded the reforms. “These guidelines are a step towards broadening the scope of recruitment and promotions in academia, ensuring that the focus is on real contributions rather than procedural hurdles,” said an education policy expert.
Looking Ahead
As the UGC drafts these changes, feedback from stakeholders will be pivotal in shaping the final regulations. The move is expected to create a more inclusive and dynamic academic landscape, encouraging innovation and excellence in India’s higher education system.
For aspiring academics, these changes open new pathways to contribute to the evolving education sector while fostering a culture of flexibility and inclusivity.
