Tamil Nadu’s Higher Education Minister Govi Chezhiaan has reiterated the state’s opposition to the University Grants Commission’s (UGC) draft regulation for 2025, stating that it would infringe upon the rights of states across the country. He urged the commission to withdraw the proposal immediately.Speaking at the Karnataka government’s national conclave of higher education ministers in Bengaluru on Wednesday, Chezhiaan argued that the draft regulations would limit the autonomy of states in governing universities.
“UGC regulations are merely recommendations and suggestions; the commission cannot compel states to implement them. It appears that these new regulations are focused on enforcing the National Education Policy (NEP) rather than genuinely improving higher education standards,” he said.
Highlighting Tamil Nadu’s investment in higher education, the minister noted that the state had allocated ₹8,212 crore for the sector, which accounts for 17% of the total allocation by the central government.
Chezhiaan also criticized the proposed regulations for excluding educationists from the search panel responsible for appointing Vice Chancellors. “Every state has the right to govern its own universities. It is disappointing that the new UGC framework does not ensure the involvement of academic experts in key decision-making processes,” he added.
The Tamil Nadu government has been vocal in its opposition to the NEP, advocating instead for a state-specific education policy that aligns with regional needs.