Dear Honourable Minister of Human Resources and Development,

I am writing this petition with a heartfelt plea to resume the increments for M.Phil./ Ph.D. holders appointed as Assistant Professors, which have been unjustly put on hold through a letter issued from Ministry of Education, dated November 2, 2017 stating that “there shall be no incentives in form of advance increments for obtaining the degrees of M.Phil or Ph.D.”

The same has been implemented through a letter dated 10th February, 2025, issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC) effectively putting those incremental incentives on hold.

As per the UGC Regulations of 2009, 2010, and 2018, which are duly recognized and have been notified in the Gazette of India, the grant of non-compounded advance increments for the holders of M.Phil./Ph.D. qualifications stands guaranteed. These benefits are an integral part of the binding service conditions of teachers and cannot be revoked by an executive letter from the UGC. This goes against the fundamental rights and the structured framework these regulations ensure for educators.

Holding an M.Phil./ Ph.D.  is not merely a degree but a testament to years of dedicated research, teaching, and contribution to the scholarly community. The increments are not just monetary rewards but recognition of the hard work and perseverance it takes to achieve such qualifications. Stopping these increments undermines the value of higher education qualifications and demoralizes educators who are at the frontline of shaping the future of our nation.

Moreover, if the increments are not resumed immediately, it could lead to a disenchanted teaching community and could adversely affect the quality of education that our students receive. This, in turn, will impact future generations and is contrary to India's vision of fostering advanced learning and innovation.

For these reasons, I earnestly request you, Honourable Minister, to ensure that the increments are reinstated forthwith to allow our educators to continue their work with the dignity and financial stability they deserve. This is critical not only for the educators but for the intellectual growth and development of our country.

Please support this cause and stand with me to urge the Ministry to act promptly. 

Sign this petition to bring justice and fairness back to our esteemed educators, whose invaluable service deserves due recognition and reward.