The Lok Sabha on Tuesday referred the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill, 2025, designed to strengthen higher education institutions, to the Joint Committee of Parliament (JPC) for detailed examination and broader consultations.
Introduced by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Monday, the bill aims to empower universities and other higher education institutions to excel in teaching, research, learning, and innovation. It proposes a transparent and rigorous system of accreditation and autonomy to enhance academic and institutional quality.
The bill met opposition from some members during its introduction. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju noted that several MPs had called for wider consultations during the Business Advisory Committee meeting. Responding to these concerns, the government agreed to send the bill to the JPC to ensure a thorough review involving all stakeholders. Rijiju also requested the Speaker to appoint members for the committee.
The Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill seeks to promote self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) in higher education by developing a skilled talent pool. It focuses on empowering youth by fostering critical and innovative thinking, alongside reskilling and upskilling to address future challenges.