STATE TIMES NEWS
JAMMU: University of Jammu has been accorded Category-I status by the University Grants Commission (UGC) under the UGC (Categorisation of Universities for Grant of Graded Autonomy) Regulations 2018, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey of quality assurance, academic and research excellence and global relevance.
Category-I status is the highest level of autonomy granted by the UGC to universities that demonstrate outstanding performance in teaching, research, governance and institutional quality. This recognition places the University of Jammu among a select group of the country’s distinguished higher education institutions.
The decision to grant Category-I status to the University of Jammu was taken by the UGC in its 594th Commission meeting held on 6th November 2025. The status has been granted based on the comprehensive data, documentation and quality metrics submitted by the Directorate of Internal Quality Assurance (DIQA), University of Jammu, reflecting the University’s robust internal quality systems and adherence to national benchmarks.
With this recognition, the University of Jammu will enjoy enhanced academic and administrative autonomy, including the freedom to introduce new and interdisciplinary academic programmes, establish international academic collaborations, joint and twinning degree programmes, research partnerships with leading foreign universities, hire foreign faculty and admit foreign students. The University can now launch Open and Distance Learning programmes in compliance with UGC regulations without prior approval. The status is expected to provide a significant impetus to research, innovation and global academic engagement.
Speaking on the occasion, the Vice Chancellor, University of Jammu, said: “Being granted Category-I status by the UGC is a proud moment for the University of Jammu. This recognition validates our commitment to academic rigor, research and innovation. It empowers us to further elevate our academic offerings, strengthen global partnerships and create transformative learning experiences for our students. I sincerely thank the Chancellor, Manoj Sinha, Lieutenant Governor, JK UT and the Hon’ble Pro-Chancellor, Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister, JK UT whose continued encouragement and support have enabled the university to reach this distinguish milestone. I also congratulate the DIQA team for their meticulous efforts in compiling and presenting the institutional data that reflects our academic strength, quality culture, and governance standards. This achievement is a collective outcome of sustained commitment to excellence across the University.”
The Vice Chancellor reiterated that the University remains committed to upholding the highest standards of academic integrity, inclusivity and excellence. He expressed hope that the Category-I status will serve as a catalyst in advancing the University’s vision of becoming a globally respected Centre of Learning, Research and Innovation.
The Category-I status builds on the University’s strong quality credentials, including its NAAC A++ accreditation-the highest grade awarded by NAAC-and its 51st position in the NIRF rankings, reflecting consistent performance across teaching, learning, research and outreach.
