The University Grants Commission (UGC) has granted greater autonomy to three universities in Tamil Nadu. As per the performance of these universities in NAAC and other rankings, UGC placed the three universities under Category I. These universities will have autonomy to launch new courses, departments, off-campus centres and distance learning course for which UGC approval is not required.
On February 12, 2018, UGC released the list of universities that have been granted greater autonomy. A total of 32 universities across the country have been placed under Category I. Maharashtra topped the list with 10 universities.
Also Read: UGC Regulations, Guidelines and Norms for Granting Greater Autonomy
Following are the three universities in Tamil Nadu that have been placed under premier category: -
- SASTRA Thanjavur
- Sri Ramachandra Medical University, Chennai
- Alagappa University, Karaikudi
Universities that have a NAAC score of 3.51 or above are eligible for greater autonomy. Apart from NAAC score, the universities that featured in the list of top 500 universities in World University Rankings, Times Higher Education (THE) or QS Rankings are also eligible for the greater autonomy.
The University of Madras and Anna University have managed to find a spot under Category II. These varsities will also have autonomy, but with some regulations.
Also Read: Funding to Greater Autonomy Universities will continue: UGC
Universities that have a NAAC score of 2.26 and 3.50 are eligible for greater autonomy under Category II. The role of UGC will be partially witnessed in the functioning of these universities. Reputed deemed university in Tamil Nadu, SRM Group has missed the chance to feature in Category II with just 0.01 NAAC points/ score.