India's Higher Education Overhaul: Single Regulator on Horizon

A new Bill, called the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhikshan Bill, aims to establish a single regulatory body for higher education in India. This body will replace existing organizations like the UGC, AICTE, and NCTE, promoting autonomy and excellence in educational institutions. Medical and law colleges will be excluded.

A new legislative initiative named the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhikshan Bill is set to revolutionize India's higher education sector. Slated for introduction in Parliament next week, following the Union Cabinet's approval, this Bill seeks to create a single regulatory entity for higher educational institutions.

This long-awaited regulatory framework, initially coined as the Higher Education Commission of India (HECI) Bill, aims to grant universities and colleges greater independence, promoting excellence through accreditation and self-governance. The new commission is poised to supplant the University Grants Commission (UGC), All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), and National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE).

Notably, this single regulatory body will oversee the domains of regulation, accreditation, and establishing professional standards, excluding medical and law colleges. However, the regulation of funding remains beyond its immediate purview, as financial autonomy is suggested to remain with the administrative ministry.

(With inputs from agencies.)