Delhi University Launches Digital UG/PG Admissions via DigiLocker & API Setu, Integrates CUET Scores Under NEP Framework 2026

UGC Allows Direct PhD Entry for FYUP Graduates: 75% Minimum Marks, Delhi University Opens Registrations for 2026-27

Delhi University has opened registrations for the first batch of Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP) students to apply directly for PhD without a Master's degree, a one-time special measure under NEP 2020. This move, backed by UGC regulations, requires a minimum CGPA of 7.5 (UR/OBC/EWS) or 7.0 (SC/ST/PwBD). However, experts warn that students may lack research preparedness and face competition from postgraduate degree holders in the job market.

NEET-UG Reform: Two-Stage JEE Pattern Under Active Consideration, Govt Tells Supreme Court

The Centre informed the Supreme Court that it is actively considering shifting NEET-UG to a two-stage format on the JEE (Mains & Advanced) pattern. The final decision will await recommendations from the Nandan Nilekani-led High-Powered Task Force on exam reforms. This is crucial for medical aspirants as it could change the entire exam structure and enhance security against paper leaks.

NCERT Granted Deemed University Status Under UGC Act 1956; Conditions Include NIRF, NAAC Compliance

The Ministry of Education has confirmed NCERT's deemed university status, expanding its role beyond school education into research and doctoral programmes. This move, approved under UGC Act 1956, comes with conditions mandating compliance with UGC norms, NIRF rankings, and NAAC accreditation, raising concerns about academic autonomy.

NEET-UG 2026 Paper Leak: CBI Charge Sheet Uses Society App Data, Phone Records Against 13 Accused

CBI has filed a charge sheet against 13 accused in the NEET-UG 2026 paper leak, revealing how three NTA subject experts exploited procedural gaps to memorise and reconstruct questions. Digital evidence from a society access control app and phone records corroborates the conspiracy. This case exposes systemic vulnerabilities in exam security and raises questions about NTA's protocols.

Punjab Passes 3 Digital University Bills, UGC Compliance Dispute, Min Corpus ₹20 Cr

Punjab Vidhan Sabha passed three Bills to establish private digital open universities (Cloud University, MS Digital University, Physicswallah Digital University), sparking opposition over alleged UGC regulation violations. These self-financed universities require a minimum corpus of ₹20 crore, reserve 15% seats for Punjab domiciled students, and rely on the Governor's assent and UGC recognition to operate.

SC Directs Govt on NEET-UG 2027 CBT Mode; Nilekani Task Force Report by Sept-End

The Supreme Court has directed the NTA to expedite the shift to computer-based NEET-UG by 2027, as the Nilekani Task Force is expected to submit its report by September-end 2026. The move comes after the 2026 question paper leaks that affected 23 lakh students, prompting the court to monitor reforms and demand permanent staffing at NTA.

2.23 Lakh DPIIT-Startups by Mar 2026; ₹945 Cr Seed Fund & NEP 2020 Push University Incubators

Indian universities are shifting from mere teaching to producing startups, with government schemes (Startup India Seed Fund, Atal Innovation Mission, TIDE 2.0) and NEP 2020 formalising incubation. As of March 2026, India has 2.23 lakh DPIIT-recognised startups generating 23.36 lakh jobs. This structural shift is key for UPSC mains (innovation ecosystem) and prelims (data points).

342 AICTE-Approved Technical Institutions Closed in 3 Years; Maharashtra Tops with 57 Closures

342 AICTE-approved technical institutions closed across 17 states in the last three academic years, as per data tabled in Lok Sabha. Maharashtra recorded the highest closures (57), followed by Uttar Pradesh (54) and Madhya Pradesh (53). The government highlighted rising enrolments and policy measures to improve institutional viability.