Effective period to use the titles of Associate Professor, Professor and Senior Professor.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced a new policy on the use of the titles of Associate Professor, Professor, and Senior Professor. Effective April 1, 2024, these titles can only be used during the time an individual is serving in the corresponding position at a relevant higher educational institution or institute.
The decision was made by the UGC at its 1120th meeting on March 7, 2024. It follows a recommendation by the Committee on Public Enterprises (COPE).
The new policy will require that an appropriate clause be included in letters of appointment or promotion for the aforementioned positions. The clause will specify that the title can only be used while serving in the position. After retirement or resignation, an individual may be eligible to use the title of Emeritus Professor if it is awarded by the council of their particular university.
The UGC is informing all relevant parties about the new policy, including vice-chancellors of universities, rectors of campuses, and directors of institutes.