Karnataka to Close Nine Newly Established Universities Amid Operational Challenges

Bengaluru- The Karnataka government is set to close nine of the recently established universities, keeping only Bidar University operational due to its successful functioning with 150 affiliated colleges and sustainable income generation. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, who leads the Cabinet Subcommittee examining the universities' performance, has emphasized that their decisions will be guided by what's best for students, educational institutions, and the state's interests.

The closure decision comes after a thorough review revealed significant operational challenges facing these institutions. According to official sources, each university requires substantial land allocation between 100 to 200 acres and approximately Rs 342 crore for basic operations, infrastructure, and equipment. Adding to these challenges, many universities are struggling with staffing issues, as faculty members have shown reluctance to relocate to certain regions like Mandya and Chamarajanagar, citing concerns about career progression and retirement benefits.

This development marks a stark contrast from March 2023, when these institutions were inaugurated by then-Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai, who had envisioned them as centers of educational excellence following what he termed the "Karnataka model."

While the subcommittee has completed its assessment, Shivakumar has indicated that the final recommendations will first be presented to the Chief Minister and discussed in the Cabinet before any public announcement about implementation details. The universities likely to be affected include those in Hassan, Chamarajanagar, Haveri, Kodagu, Koppal, Bagalkot, Bengaluru's Maharani Cluster, Mandya, and Nrupatunga.