New Delhi: The University Grants Commission (UGC) has proposed changes to the regulations governing the appointment of Vice-Chancellors and university faculty.

The draft rules were recently released, sparking opposition from various quarters, including the governments of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

Responding to a query in the Lok Sabha, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan stated that the proposed rules aim to enhance the autonomy and holistic development of state universities. The draft allows universities greater freedom in faculty appointments and provides a framework for decision-making in consultation with state governments.

Key amendments include provisions for universities to form selection committees for Vice-Chancellor appointments and guidelines for publishing research papers.

Pradhan emphasized that these reforms are designed to foster the growth of state universities while maintaining a collaborative approach with state authorities.