The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued notices to 54 private universities spread across 18 states for failing to comply with mandatory public self-disclosure guidelines, underscoring the regulator’s focus on transparency and accountability in India’s higher education sector. Located in states including Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and West Bengal, these institutions have not uploaded crucial information on their official websites as required by norms introduced by the UGC in June 2024.
The mandated disclosures include vital details on academic programs, faculty profiles, infrastructure, research output, governance, fee structures, and placement records – empowering students and parents for informed decisions. Gujarat has eight non-compliant universities (Gandhinagar University, Transstadia University among them). Sikkim has four flagged varsities – Medhavi Skills University, Sikkim Alpine University, Sikkim Skill University, Sikkim International University – prompting local demands for government intervention. In Karnataka, multiple Bengaluru-based institutions are among those identified. Madhya Pradesh tops the list with the highest number of non-compliant universities. Manipur’s three state private universities – Asian International University, Manipur International University, Bir Tarkendrji University – face severe transparency allegations. Dr.Kumar also informed Govt. of Sikkim has approved many private universities in Sikkim. In a population of approximately 6,00,000-700000 persons, with a tagged of least populated State, more than 10 private universities are operating except Government Colleges and university.
“Aspirants like Chandan, a Bengaluru engineering hopeful, voiced concerns saying, ‘I shouldn’t have to struggle to find basic info about universities I’m considering.’” Parents stressed, “Transparency is essential when deciding on our children’s educational future.” Dr.Kumar, a higher education analyst, noted, “This move signals accountability is non-negotiable in India’s academia.” A UGC official emphasized, “Transparency builds trust between institutions and stakeholders.”
The UGC warns non-compliance may invite inspections, financial penalties, or regulatory actions impacting recognition/operations. Affected universities must address directives swiftly amid India’s push for governance and openness in higher education. Required disclosures cover academic syllabi, faculty qualifications, infrastructure, research grants, fees, scholarships, placements, accreditation – fostering informed choices and accountability.
