Centre agrees to modify higher education Bill after Andhra Pradesh's concerns over centralisation of powers
The Union Education Ministry has agreed to several changes in the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill (VBSA), 2025, following Andhra Pradesh's concerns about centralisation of powers. The proposed Regulatory Council will now require State government clearance for key decisions concerning colleges affiliated with State universities. The Joint Parliamentary Committee reviewing the Bill also recommended a comprehensive review of Clause 47, which grants the Centre superseding powers. Andhra Pradesh had termed Clause 11(4) a "single most significant structural change" as it allowed the Regulatory Council to bypass State universities in degree-awarding decisions.
Key Points
- The Union Education Ministry agreed to modify the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill (VBSA), 2025.
- The Regulatory Council will now need State government clearance for decisions affecting affiliated colleges.
- Andhra Pradesh raised concerns about the centralisation of powers and the bypassing of State universities.
- The Joint Parliamentary Committee recommended a comprehensive review of Clause 47, which grants the Centre superseding powers.
- A provision will be added allowing State universities to establish constituent colleges and campuses as per State laws.
Exam Facts
- Bill name: Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill (VBSA), 2025.
- Clause 11(4) and Clause 47 were contentious provisions.
- Meghalaya government also suggested amendments to Clause 12.
- Union List Entry 66 limits Parliament's power regarding "coordination and determination of standards".
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