IGNOU’s DEC dissolved; UGC to regulate Open & Distance Learning

In an unprecedented move, the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) has dissolved the Distance Education Council (DEC) of the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU). From now on the University Grants Commission (UGC) will handle the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) education system.

According to a UGC notification, dated May 28, "Pursuant to notification dated May 4 issued by the IGNOU, statute 28 of IGNOU Act 1985 dealing with the DEC has been repealed and deleted with immediate effect. Accordingly, DEC of IGNOU stands dissolved."

Various sources have considered the move as positive, and in interest of ODL programmes. UGC is currently working on regularising and maintaining standards of ODL programmes/courses.

DEC, constituted under the IGNOU Act, was responsible for promotion and coordination of the open university and distance education system and determination of its standards in the country.