Jammu, June 15 (UNI) The Academic Council (AC) of the University of Jammu on Sunday approved the creation of one supernumerary seat for transgender candidates in each on-campus programme of the University, as a step towards fulfilling its social responsibility.

The Council, which met under the Chairmanship of Vice Chancellor Prof Umesh Rai, at the Bhaderwah Campus, for the first time as part of its outreach programme, also endorsed the adoption of the National Credit Framework (NCrF) along with its Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) for effective implementation at the University of Jammu.

During the exhaustive deliberations, the Council covered a wide range of academic and research matters, inter alia, approving existing guidelines and statutes related to several academic programmes in accordance with the latest applicable UGC Guidelines.

The M A History programme, along with certificate courses in Basic Accounting, Goods and Services Tax (GST), and Filing of Income Tax Returns through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode, were also endorsed under the Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE).

Revised statutes governing the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme – Design Your Degree, aligned with NEP 2020, were also approved.

The introduction of a Postgraduate (MA/M.Sc.) Degree Programme in Disaster Management under the Department of Geology was also endorsed by the Academic Council.

Additionally, the Council approved the provision allowing candidates to pursue an academic programme under the Centre for Distance and Online Education (ODL/Online mode) simultaneously with another academic programme in physical mode at a UGC-recognized University, in line with the revised UGC Guidelines.

Further, the modalities for signing Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) for various academic activities were chalked out during a focused interaction with officers of the Indian Army.

At the outset, the Vice Chancellor welcomed all members of the Council and expressed appreciation for their presence—both in person and in virtual mode.

Calling the event a significant step in institutional outreach, Prof Umesh Rai emphasized the need to empower off-site campuses and bring core academic discussions closer to students, faculty, and civil society in remote regions.

He acknowledged the collective efforts of faculty, staff, and leadership that made it possible to host the meeting in such a vibrant academic setting.

The Vice Chancellor extended his heartfelt appreciation to several faculty members for their contributions, including Prof Meena Sharma for leading key infrastructure developments, Prof. J.P. Singh Joorel and Prof. Rahul Gupta for their committed work at Bhaderwah Campus.

He acknowledged transitions across academic leadership and welcomed newly appointed deans and faculty heads.

Referring to the University’s progress since the last Academic Council meeting, the Vice Chancellor spoke about the University’s advancements in academics, research, infrastructure, student engagement, digital transformation, and national-level recognition.

He appreciated the seamless teamwork that contributed to impressive accreditation, timely admissions, new academic collaborations, and enhanced student opportunities.

Prof. Rai said that multiple infrastructure and academic initiatives have been rolled out in recent months, significantly enhancing the University's physical and digital ecosystem.

He also highlighted the University's growing presence in national rankings and its expanding footprint through MoUs and research partnerships.

The Vice Chancellor also took a moment to acknowledge the efforts of stakeholders who have made significant contributions to the University’s growth.

He lauded the Director DIQA Dr Ginny Dogra for her instrumental role in securing the prestigious A++ NAAC accreditation, and appreciated the Director of IT Dr. Guneet Singh Sudan for spearheading key digital initiatives that have enhanced administrative efficiency and digital infrastructure.

He further commended the contributions of many others—including faculty members, staff, and academic coordinators—whose dedication continues to drive the University forward.

Earlier, Dr. Neeraj Sharma, Registrar, placed before the Council several key agenda and reporting items. The Council confirmed the minutes of its previous meeting held on November 20, 2025, and ratified the academic decisions taken by the Vice Chancellor in the interim.

On the sideline of the Academic Council meeting, a soulful song titled “Wah Bhaderwah”, sung and produced by Col. Kuldeep Manhas, was released. The song captures the spirit of the Bhaderwah region—its scenic beauty, people, peace, and the harmony that binds the community together.

While the academic deliberations were underway at the Bhaderwah Campus, Prof. Sadaf Shah, Assistant Director, SIIDEC, delivered a presentation on the University’s flagship Design Your Degree (DYD) programme.

Around 150 students from various local schools of Bhaderwah and nearby areas participated with excitement and expressed keen interest in pursuing the DYD programme.

UNI VBH GNK