University Grants Commission has proposed a major change in the way research scholars are enrolled in Ph.D courses across the country. The two-stage selection process is mandatory even for private institutions and universities. This also includes a compulsory internship with policy organizations.
UGC has now proposed that a research scholar should at least have 55 per cent marks and must get enrolled in a Ph.D course through a national/ state/ university level entrance exam. The suggestions regarding the same have been put by a four-member committee. The four-member committee is headed by the formed IISC Bengaluru Director P Balram.
The panel was in charge to come up with recommendations to improve the quality and standard of the Indian research work. This will also help them to get recognition globally. According to the committee, in its report, noted that the number of students opting for PhD courses has doubled since 2010. Around 77, 918 candidates applied for the Ph.D course in the year 2019 and 2017-18 the number went up to 1,61, 412 in the year 2017-18. However, the percentage of PhD enrolments declined in the government-run institutes, IITs and others. The number of candidates applying in private deemed universities for Ph.D courses has gone up.
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The number reflects the quality of research at the doctoral degree level. One of the main reason for the increase in the Ph.D enrolment is that it has become mandatory to have a doctoral-level degree for faculty positions in varsities and colleges.