UGC discontinues CARE journal list: Here's how Odisha reacts to the move

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced the discontinuation of the UGC-CARE list of journals, a move that aims to decentralise the evaluation of research publications. The Commission is also reportedly planning to develop suggestive parameters for choosing peer-reviewed journals by faculty members and students.

The decision was made during a recent meeting of the Commission based on recommendations from an expert committee. Meanwhile, the decision by UGC has been welcomed by several researchers and scholars in Odisha. 

Welcoming the decision, Dr Soumya Ranjan Mohapatra, an Assistant Professor from Odisha said, "Due to a recent surge in scientific research in science and technology, many research institutes, institutes of national importance, and private universities are offering PhD in various diverse fields. As a result, it inclines many young minds towards research. But during research, publications play a very vital role and it's a parameter to judge one's scientific result and its credibility."

"Many publication houses have launched new journals to attract research articles across various fields. However, transparency in publishing is essential, as several recently launched journals have turned into profit-driven businesses, compromising research quality, credibility, and authenticity. This often leads to journal retractions, damaging the reputation of scholars aspiring for highly coveted degrees. To maintain academic integrity, there must be sufficient transparency and a rigorous peer-review process before publication," Mohapatra added.

Also Read: UGC serves show-cause notices to 18 medical colleges; highest in Andhra Pradesh, Bihar

Dr. Nilakantha Tripathy, an Assistant Professor of Physics at Government Model Degree College in Nabarangpur said, "The decision by the UGC to discontinue the use of the UGC CARE list of journals is commendable. This change will compel faculty members and research scholars to choose peer-reviewed journals for publishing their articles, which will undoubtedly enhance research quality and foster critical thinking. This, in turn, will contribute significantly to the development of new products and technologies aimed at achieving the goals of Vikasit Bharat 2047."

Read More: UGC imposes ban on 3 universities for awarding Ph.D degrees

What is UGC-CARE List?

The UGC-CARE list was introduced in 2018 to regulate and ensure the quality of academic research publications. However, over time, the list faced significant criticism for its inefficiencies, including delays in journal inclusion and exclusion, lack of transparency, and the inadvertent inclusion of predatory journals.

Besides, concerns were raised about its impact on journals published in Indian languages and the heavy centralisation of academic decision-making.