New Delhi— The draft guidelines titled UGC (Setting up and Operation of Campuses of Foreign Higher Education Institutions in India) Regulations, 2023 are open to suggestions from the public and stakeholders until January 18.

The guidelines are in adherence to the National Education Policy (NEP), which envisages “top universities” in the world will be facilitated to operate in India.”

According to the draft regulations, the universities will be able to offer full-time courses in offline mode. The universities require to have secured a position within the top 500 of overall/subject-wise global rankings; or should be a reputed institution in their home country. The draft does not mention the global rankings to be adhered to.

The draft restricts the proposed varsities from taking online classes and hence, they have to stick to the offline mode.

Although the draft grants some degree of autonomy in fee structure and admission process it categorically says that the fee structure should be reasonable.

The document states that the institutions making their entry into India must “not offer any such programme of study which jeopardizes the national interest of India or the standards of higher education in India”.

The draft also warns that ”The operation of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions shall not be contrary to the sovereignty and integrity of India, the security of the State, friendly relations with foreign States, public order, decency, or morality.”

Mixed responses on the UGC move

The move of the UGC is receiving mix responses from people. Amitabh Kant, former CEO of the Niti Ayog tweeted “

“The no of Indian students opting for higher education abroad would rise to 1.8 mn with their overseas spending rising to $80 Bln by 2024. In this context, UGC allowing foreign universities to set up campuses in India with autonomy to decide fee structure is a highly welcome move.”

While D. Raja of CPI tweeted “UGC’s draft guideline allowing foreign universities to open branches in India is a dangerous move that can distort the higher education ecosystem of the country. A regulatory framework for such universities must be discussed in the Parliament to protect the future of students.”

The netizens also seemed to be divided on the move. While some welcome the proposal citing better job prospects for teachers, less forex outgo, and quality & standards upgradation, some are doubtful of any positive impact from it further claiming that it would jeopardize the national interest instead of doing any good.

While india moves a step closer to allow Foreign Higher Education Institutes, it needs to be seen that how does it incorporate the public opinion it has sought on the draft.