Sri Vijaya Puram | February 11, 2026
Amid the ongoing agitation by the students of the constituent colleges of the Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Institute of Higher Learning (Institution Deemed to be University – DTBU), a delegation of students met with officials of the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, following which the Administration issued clarifications on various concerns raised by the students.
On the issue of fees, the Administration clarified that there shall be no fee hike, and that fees will remain nominal to ensure accessibility. It further stated that NSCBIHL (DTBU) is fully funded by grants of the UT Administration.
Responding to concerns regarding infrastructure, the Administration stated that the constituent colleges shall continue to function as they are with the existing infrastructure. It also assured that further augmentation of infrastructure and facilities would be undertaken to improve the quality of education under NSCBIHL.
With regard to stipends, the Administration clarified that the existing system of payment of stipends to students of the constituent colleges shall not be stopped.
On the question of long-term funding, the Administration stated that the UT Administration shall continue to fund the Institution Deemed to be University even after five years of its establishment.
Clarifying doubts related to examinations and evaluation, the Administration stated that for students admitted during the academic year 2025–26, examinations and evaluation shall be carried out by NSCBIHL with the help of Pondicherry University/Mentor Institute, under a Memorandum of Understanding executed by the Andaman and Nicobar Administration.
On accreditation, the Administration stated that NAAC and NIRF accreditation is a mandatory requirement as per the UGC (Institutions Deemed to be Universities) Regulations, 2023.
Addressing concerns about the reputation of the Deemed to be University after five years, the Administration stated that the institution shall ensure maintenance of quality benchmarks set by the UGC by participating in NAAC, NIRF and NBA rankings, fostering research, ensuring accountable processes and adopting industry-aligned curricula.
In addition, the Administration stated that NSCBIHL shall deliver timely, relevant and high-quality higher education within the islands, reduce migration of students outside the territory, and align learning with the unique needs of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. It was also stated that the institution shall provide avenues for students of the islands to undertake research activities within the islands.
(Story Based on PR from Andaman and Nicobar Administration)
