Universities offering distance learning degrees shall now be penalization by UGC if they cheat students and deceive the through false adverts . The Ministry of Human Resource and Development has approved some new regulations for open and distance learning. Some of the major highlights of the approved regulations are installing CCTV cameras in the examination centre, maintaining qualified faculty and others.

Now Universities offering distance learning courses have seek fresh approval from University Grants Commission (UGC). All the government and private institutes offering Open and Distance Learning (ODL) come under this new regulation. University Grants Commission will notify other regulations soon.

A very important thing to take a note of is that, as explained MHRD officials that the students who acquire degree through Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode from a non-recognised university or institution would have no use. These degrees will not be useful for either government service nor pursuing higher education.

Every year approx 40 lakh students enroll in distance learning courses and if varsitiesoffering ODL fails to seek fresh approvals, the degree offered by these varsities, or institutes will hold no validity.

With an objective to enhance quality education in distance and open learning courses, the varsities or institutes must submit the details of faculty members for seeking approval. Currently, 140 universities or institutes got approval from University Grants Commission for offering courses in Open and Distance Learning mode.