Sat Feb 15 15:01:14 UTC 2025: ## Kerala Tightens Regulations on Private Universities, Prioritizes Public Institutions
**Thrissur, Kerala – February 15, 2025** – The Kerala government is implementing strict regulations for private universities, prioritizing the strengthening of public institutions before allowing private investment in higher education. Higher Education Minister R. Bindu announced the news at a press conference in Thrissur on Saturday.
Minister Bindu stated that the state’s approach has shifted from weakening public universities to pave the way for private ones, to a focus on bolstering existing public institutions. She emphasized that private universities will only be permitted to operate under stringent regulatory frameworks, a policy already approved by the state cabinet. The relevant bill must pass before applications for private university operation will be accepted.
Kerala’s commitment to higher education is evidenced by a ₹6,000 crore investment over the past four years. This investment has yielded impressive results, with 42 Kerala colleges ranking among the top 200 universities nationally, representing 21% of the best-ranked institutions in India. Three of Kerala’s universities hold the 9th, 10th, and 11th positions nationally, and Kerala University boasts an A++ NAAC accreditation, while Calicut, Kalady, and CUSAT have received A+ grades. Last year alone, ₹1,883.35 crore was allocated to higher education.
Minister Bindu also addressed the issue of ragging, stating that the government will take stringent action against any incidents. She clarified that the Health department handles such cases in nursing colleges and that a recent incident occurred in an institution lacking student organizations, emphasizing that student groups should not be blamed for this isolated case.
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