MDU reassures Stakeholders on NAAC Status and Distance & Online Education Programmes

Rohtak, December 6, 2025: Maharshi Dayanand University (MDU), Rohtak, placed the factual position regarding recent reports in a section of the media about the NAAC accreditation status of the University and the validity of its Distance and Online Education programmes.

Addressing a press conference on behalf of the MDU, Registrar Dr. Krishan Kant Gupta and Dean Academic Affairs Prof. S. C. Malik said that MDU continues to adhere strictly to all national regulatory norms and remains fully committed to quality in teaching, research and outreach.

The University officials recalled that MDU was accredited with NAAC Grade A+ in 2019 for a period of five years. Before the expiry of this cycle, NAAC itself announced a change in methodology and timelines for accreditation.

In its public notices dated January 27, 2024 and December 5, 2025, NAAC has clearly stated that; it is shifting to a new system of Basic (Binary) Accreditation followed by Maturity-Based Graded Levels (MBGL) Accreditation) as per the Dr. Radhakrishnan Committee recommendations. For all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) accredited under RAF, whose validity was set to expire or likely to expire between 27 January 2024 and the date of launch of MBGL, the validity shall be extended for a maximum period of three months after the launch of MBGL Accreditation. Such HEIs may also opt for the new Basic Accreditation route once it is launched.

“In simple terms, NAAC itself has put a transition framework in place,” the Registrar explained. “Many Institutions and Universities like MDU that were already accredited under RAF and whose cycle fell in this transition window will continue to be treated as accredited until the new MBGL-based system is launched and the extended period thereafter is over.”

Dr. Krishan Kant Gupta further clarified that well before the expiry of its previous cycle, MDU had written to NAAC expressing its readiness to apply under the new framework and requesting permission to submit IIQA/SSR as per the new guidelines, with continuity of the existing Grade A+ till then. The University has been in regular correspondence with NAAC in this regard.

“MDU is fully prepared for the next cycle of accreditation under the new system. The moment NAAC operationalises its new methodology and opens the window, we will apply,” he said.

Prof. S.C. Malik added, “Meanwhile, our Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) is continuously strengthening quality benchmarks in line with national policies and regulatory requirements. Our track record in NIRF rankings and research performance speaks for itself.”

Referring to queries raised about the Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE), the Registrar and Dean Academic Affairs reiterated the factual position already placed on record by the CDOE:

•          All Distance and Online programmes of MDU are being run strictly as per the UGC (Open and Distance Learning and Online Programmes) Regulations and other applicable norms.

•          Necessary approvals for both Distance and Online Education have been duly obtained from the competent regulatory authorities and are valid for offering the already approved programmes till the academic session 2025–26.

•          For the current session, UGC–DEB has generated DEB IDs for all students admitted in 2025–26, which clearly reflects the validity of these programmes by the regulatory authority.

•          All students presently enrolled in these programmes will continue their studies, examinations and award of degrees as per prevailing regulations and notifications.

“Students and parents should have no doubt whatsoever,” Registrar Dr. Gupta emphasised. “Every learner who has taken admission in a duly approved programme of CDOE will complete that programme and receive a valid degree as per UGC–DEB norms.” Further we shall be also working to start new programmes in Distance and Online Education from MDU in the best interest of learners.

While reiterating their respect for the role of the media, the Registrar and Dean Academic Affairs expressed concern that unverified, partial or motivated reports on sensitive regulatory issues can create unnecessary confusion among students and parents and may harm the reputation of public institutions.