USTM refutes Assam CM’s ‘fraudulent’ claims, highlights academic excellence

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaFebruary 20, 2025

The University of Science and Technology Meghalaya (USTM) has strongly condemned the recent remarks made by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, in which he allegedly labelled the institution as fraudulent.

In a statement released on Thursday, USTM asserted that such claims undermine the credibility of India’s highest statutory and accreditation bodies that have recognized the university’s academic excellence.

Established in 2011, USTM emphasized its ‘A’ Grade accreditation by NAAC in its first assessment cycle and its ranking among India’s top 200 universities by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), Ministry of Education, for the past three consecutive years. Additionally, the university has been ranked 52nd in the Nature Index, reflecting the high quality of its research and scientific output. The Meghalaya Private University Regulatory Board (MPURB) consistently monitors USTM’s educational standards, reinforcing its credibility.

Refuting the allegations, USTM reaffirmed that all teaching, learning, and evaluation processes strictly adhere to UGC guidelines. The university’s PhD program follows a rigorous and transparent research process that meets and often exceeds UGC standards. Research scrutiny includes evaluations by external experts from premier institutions such as IIT Guwahati, JNU, Delhi University, Tezpur University, and North-Eastern Hill University.

To date, USTM has awarded 111 PhDs under faculty guidance, secured 140 patents (published/granted), published 1,085 research papers in reputed national and international journals, produced 350+ UGC NET & GATE qualifiers and sent students to institutions like IISc Bangalore, IITs, and Central Universities for higher studies.

USTM highlighted its role as a host for prestigious national and international events, including the National Conference of Vice-Chancellors 2023, organized for the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), where over 400 Vice-Chancellors and Directors participated. The university has also welcomed distinguished guests, including former Presidents Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam and Shri Ram Nath Kovind, UGC and NAAC chairpersons, UPSC officials, and Cabinet Ministers.

Rejecting the allegations as baseless, USTM stated, “Such remarks not only tarnish the reputation of a credible educational institution but also demoralize thousands of students, faculty members, and researchers striving for excellence.” The university has openly invited any official inquiry or investigation to verify its credentials.

“We urge the Chief Minister to engage in a fact-based discussion and recognize USTM’s contributions to higher education and national development. The university remains committed to academic excellence, research, and social empowerment,” the statement concluded.

USTM reaffirmed that all its courses are recognized by UGC and approved by AICTE (for B.Tech & MBA), BCI (for Law), PCI (for Pharmacy), NCTE (for B.Ed), NCISM (for BAMS), and NMC (for MBBS). The institution has also secured government-funded research projects from premier bodies, including Department of Science and Technology (DST), Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM).

USTM has completed 74 government-funded research projects, with 14 ongoing projects, and several under review. One of its faculty members has been recognized among the World’s Top 2% of Scientists by Stanford University.

USTM was the first private university to implement NEP 2020. Six of its students were nominated by UGC as NEP SAARTHI ambassadors, contributing to nationwide academic reforms. Vice-Chancellor Prof. G.D. Sharma has played a pivotal role in shaping the policy’s roadmap as a UGC-nominated zonal committee member.

USTM emphasized its dedication to inclusive education, with 20% of students from underprivileged backgrounds receiving free education, 57% female student enrollment, promoting girl child education and students excelling in national platforms like Vikshit Bharat National Championship and National Youth Parliament Competition.

The university has received multiple prestigious awards, including the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Public Service (2022) for Chancellor Mahbubul Hoque and the Outstanding Vice-Chancellor in India Award for Prof. G.D. Sharma, conferred by the Indian Education Network.

With its strong academic credentials, research excellence, and national recognition, USTM has reaffirmed its standing as a premier institution committed to education, innovation, and social progress.