VBSA Bill Signals a Major Shift in Degree-Granting Powers and Higher Education Regulation

India’s higher education regulatory system is on the brink of a fundamental transformation. The proposed Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhikshan Bill (VBSA) signals a decisive shift away from the legacy framework that has governed universities and colleges for decades.

By proposing the repeal of the UGC Act, AICTE Act, and NCTE Act, the VBSA Bill aims to introduce a unified regulatory architecture supported by separate councils for regulation, accreditation, and academic standards. This restructuring reflects a clear policy intent to simplify oversight while placing greater emphasis on measurable institutional performance.

One of the most significant provisions under discussion is the discontinuation of the deemed-to-be university category. Institutions currently operating under this status would be reclassified as full-fledged universities. At the same time, the Bill opens the possibility for high-performing accredited colleges to be granted independent degree-awarding powers, subject to approval and supervision by the proposed regulatory council.

This marks a clear departure from status-based recognition towards performance-linked academic autonomy.

For higher education institutions, the implications are substantial. Accreditation outcomes, internal quality systems, and evidence-based governance will no longer be supporting processes alone. They may become decisive factors in determining an institution’s academic authority, autonomy, and long-term sustainability.

In this emerging framework, institutions that rely on fragmented documentation, manual compliance, or last-minute accreditation preparation risk being left behind. The ability to demonstrate continuous improvement, robust internal audits, data integrity, and alignment with national education priorities will become critical.

As India’s higher education ecosystem moves towards outcome-driven governance, institutions that invest early in strong internal quality systems and continuous accreditation readiness will be better positioned to adapt, compete, and lead.

The VBSA Bill is not merely a regulatory reform. It is a signal that quality, evidence, and preparedness will define the future of higher education.