A new scheme by the University Grants Commission (UGC) for biannual admissions in higher educational institutions (HEIs) has evoked a poor response, with only six of 48 central universities adopting the provision.

In May this year, the higher education regulator approved a proposal that allows universities and colleges offering non-technical courses to admit students twice a year — once in July and August, and again in January and February. This decision aims to increase the Gross Enrolment Rate (GER) in higher education. Many universities in the US and the UK also admit students twice a year.

The UGC had asked the HEIs to plan properly keeping in mind infrastructure and faculty before starting biannual admission. The UGC had said the institutions can admit students through the Common University Entrance Test or any other entrance test or on the basis of boards marks.

In the Rajya Sabha, MDMK member Vaiko on Wednesday wanted to know the number of central universities and institutions that have adopted the practice of offering admissions twice a year. Minister of state for education Sukanta Majumdar said admitting students twice a year was optional for the HEIs.

In a written reply, Majumdar said six central universities has decided to offer this choice to students this year.

Non-NET fellowship

The monthly scholarship amount under the non-NET (National Eligibility Test) scheme to help students pursue research courses in central universities has remained unchanged at ₹8,000 for PhD and ₹5,000 for MPhil for the past 12 years. On Wednesday, Indian Union Muslim League member Abdul Wahab wanted to know when the amount was last revised and if the government would revise it.

Majumdar did not answer the question but made a general comment.