UGC-NET Exams scheduled for January 15 postponed due to festival clashes: NTA

The National Testing Agency (NTA) has announced the postponement of the University Grants Commission-National Eligibility Test (UGC-NET) originally scheduled for January 15, 2025, due to the Makar Sankranti and Pongal festivals. In a public notice issued on Monday, the NTA emphasized that this decision was made in the interest of students. However, the examination scheduled for January 16, 2025, will proceed as planned.

The UGC-NET exam is a national-level test conducted biannually to determine eligibility for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), assistant professor positions, and admission to PhD programs. The postponed examination includes subjects such as mass communication and journalism, law, electronic science, and environmental sciences. These tests were to be held in two shifts on January 15. The NTA assured candidates that a revised date for this exam will be announced soon.

Appeals and responses

The postponement decision came after several representations were made by students and political leaders. On January 9, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin wrote to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, urging a rescheduling of the exams to avoid conflicts with Pongal festivities. Similarly, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi had earlier appealed to the Centre on December 22, 2024, requesting a reconsideration of the exam schedule.

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In its official statement, the NTA said, “The National Testing Agency has received representations to postpone the UGC-NET December 2024 examination on account of Pongal, Makar Sankranti, and other festivals on January 15, 2025. In the interest of aspirants, the National Testing Agency (NTA) has decided to postpone the UGC-NET December 2024 Exam scheduled on January 15, 2025, only.”

The examinations scheduled for January 16, however, remain unaffected. These include 13 subjects such as Sociology, German, and Hindu studies, which will be conducted as per the original timetable.

UGC-NET overview

The UGC-NET is a prestigious examination conducted twice a year under the authority of the NTA. It is a crucial gateway for aspirants aiming to secure a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), qualify for assistant professor roles, or gain admission to PhD courses. The test is recognized for its rigorous standards and comprehensive coverage of a wide range of academic disciplines.

In this session, the UGC-NET December 2024 examination covers numerous subjects, drawing participation from candidates across the country. The recent decision to reschedule one day of the examination highlights the agency’s responsiveness to cultural and regional sensitivities. By accommodating the requests of stakeholders, the NTA has ensured that students’ convenience and well-being remain central to its operations.

Candidates are advised to monitor the official NTA website for updates regarding the revised schedule. The commitment to fairness and accessibility in conducting national-level exams reinforces the importance of balancing academic pursuits with cultural observances, showcasing the NTA’s dedication to serving diverse student needs.