Indian Institute of Mass Communication Elevates to Deemed University Status: A Milestone in Media Education
In a significant development in the realm of journalism and mass communication, the esteemed Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) and its five regional centers have been granted the coveted status of a deemed university. The Ministry of Education, acting upon the recommendation of the University Grants Commission (UGC), has conferred this prestigious designation on IIMC, marking a new era for the institution.
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| Indian Institute of Mass Communication got the status of deemed university. |
Expanded Horizons: Deemed University Recognition
This transformative announcement encompasses not only the main campus, IIMC New Delhi, but also its five regional counterparts located in Jammu (Jammu and Kashmir), Amravati (Maharashtra), Aizawl (Mizoram), Kottayam (Kerala), and Dhenkanal (Odisha). The deemed university status empowers IIMC to award degrees, including doctoral degrees, cementing its position as a leading educational institution in the field of media and mass communication.
Academic Authority and Training Excellence
With the newfound status, IIMC gains the authority to confer degrees, a significant stride that extends its influence beyond training programs. Notably, IIMC serves as the training academy for Indian Information Service (IIS) officers, emphasizing its pivotal role in shaping the future of media professionals in the country.
Heritage of Excellence: IIMC's Journey Since 1965
Established on August 17, 1965, under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, IIMC has been a stalwart in providing top-notch training in journalism and conducting meaningful research in media and mass communication. The institute's legacy of excellence has played a crucial role in shaping the careers of numerous media professionals.
Overcoming Obstacles: The Journey to Deemed University Status
The road to becoming a deemed university for IIMC was not without challenges. In 2016, there was a demand from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to confer this status, but it faced rejection from both the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and the Ministry of Education (formerly the Ministry of Human Resource Development).
Navigating Recommendations: The 2018 NITI Aayog Review
In a subsequent development during the review of higher education institutions by NITI Aayog in 2018, it was suggested that IIMC be merged with either the Center for Media Studies of Jawaharlal Nehru University or the AJK Mass Communication Research Center of Jamia Millia Islamia. However, the journey ultimately led to the granting of deemed university status, recognizing IIMC's unique contributions to media education.
The Significance of Deemed University Status
Being a deemed university brings numerous advantages, including increased funding opportunities, the ability to attract top-tier faculty, and more flexible admissions policies. IIMC's newfound autonomy allows it to modify its curriculum, conduct examinations, and evaluate academic performance independently.
In conclusion, the elevation of IIMC to the status of a deemed university is a landmark achievement that solidifies its standing as a beacon of excellence in media education. As it continues to evolve, IIMC is poised to shape the future of media professionals and contribute significantly to the dynamic landscape of journalism and mass communication.
