The Executive Council (EC) of Delhi University (DU) has approved significant changes affecting PhD admissions, scholarships, medical facilities, and postgraduate programmes. These decisions, taken during a meeting on Friday, aim to enhance the academic and administrative framework of the university while benefiting students, staff, and the broader DU community.
UGC NET Scores to Be Considered for PhD Admissions
Starting from the academic session 2024-25, the EC has decided to include UGC NET scores from June 2024 and December 2024 in the second phase of PhD admissions. Candidates who qualify for NET + JRF will be given preference in the selection process.
Additionally, the EC has approved a 20-25% increase in the number of PhD seats compared to the previous admission cycle, creating more opportunities for aspiring researchers.
Communication with St. Stephen’s College
Professor Anil Kumar Aneja, Head of the Department of English and DU’s representative in the Governing Body of St. Stephen’s College, has been authorized to facilitate communication between the university and the college. This step is aimed at resolving any issues while adhering to the University of Delhi’s Act, Statutes, and Ordinances, as well as UGC Regulations.
Vice Chancellor Professor Yogesh Singh has also included EC members Aman Kumar and Raj Pal in the committee, alongside Professor Aneja, to ensure a comprehensive approach to addressing concerns.
Reservation for Single Girl Children in PG Programmes
The DU Academic Council (AC) has approved the reservation of additional seats for single girl children in postgraduate programmes. Under this provision, one seat in each PG programme will be reserved as an additional quota, aiming to promote gender equity in higher education.
Enhanced Medical Facilities for DU Employees
DU employees will now have access to medical services at Railway Hospitals on a reimbursement basis. These services will include Outpatient Department (OPD), Inpatient Department (IPD), diagnostic, and operative facilities at CGHS rates, specifically at Northern Railway Hospitals.
Revised Guidelines for Scholarships and Donations
The EC has passed revised norms for instituting scholarships, awards, and capital assets at DU. Scholarships can now be established by government bodies, trusts, corporate houses, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), NGOs, and other national and international organizations, along with individuals.
Key points include:
- Minimum Amounts for Scholarships:
- ₹5 lakh for a 10-year duration
- ₹10 lakh for a 20-year duration
- Contribution to DU Endowment Fund:
- 2% of the total scholarship amount will be transferred to the DU Endowment Fund at the time of establishment.
These changes are expected to attract more philanthropic contributions and provide greater financial support to deserving students.
Key Highlights and Impact
The approved measures reflect DU’s commitment to improving its academic environment and addressing the diverse needs of its stakeholders. The increase in PhD seats and inclusion of UGC NET scores will boost research opportunities. The reservation for single girl children demonstrates the university’s focus on gender inclusivity, while enhanced medical facilities and streamlined scholarship norms highlight DU’s emphasis on employee welfare and student support.
These decisions underline DU’s dedication to maintaining its position as a leading educational institution in India. With these progressive steps, the university continues to enhance its academic and administrative ecosystem.
