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Inside Dyal Singh College, Delhi University: Courses, Infrastructure, Fees, Student Life & Placements | DU Beat

By DU Beat January 3, 2026

Dyal Singh College (Delhi University) – Explore updated details on courses, fees, admissions, campus facilities, student life, placements, and scholarships.

Dyal Singh College, DU was established as a Delhi-campus college on 5 August 1959, evolved from the educational trust of Sardar Dyal Singh Majithia and located at Lodhi Road, Pragati Vihar, New Delhi.

A constituent college of the University of Delhi it was taken over as a University-maintained institution in 1978. With its respected legacy, DSC offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in arts, sciences and commerce under a co-educational setting.

Dyal Singh College Infrastructure & Campus Facilities
Dyal Singh College offers a well-equipped and eco-friendly campus spanning 11 acres that caters to the academic and extracurricular needs of students. The college boasts modern lecture halls, science laboratories, computer labs, seminar rooms, and an extensive central library that houses a total collection of over 1 lakh books and 57 journals and magazines. The college library provides access to more than 3,800 e-journals and 80,000 e-books through the National Library and Information Services, Infrastructure for the scholarly content (N-List) program of MHRD/ UGC. To cater for the need of the visually challenged, the library is equipped with JAWS enabled computers, scanner and Braille printer, braille books, Audio CD’s, Daisy Players, Laptops and Tape recorders. It also provides Wi-Fi connectivity, a gymnasium, sports facilities, and hostel accommodation for both boys and girls. The campus has a cafeteria, medical facilities, and auditoriums for cultural events and academic discussions.

Courses Offered at Dyal Singh College, Delhi University
Dyal Singh College offers undergraduate honours and general programmes across multiple disciplines. In the Arts discipline the college offers a B.A. (Prog) with 30 different major and minor combinations including the subjects of Bengali, Urdu, Geography, History, Political Science, Economics, Maths, Commerce etc. and B.A. (honours) in English, Economics, Geography, Hindi, History, Political Science Philosophy, Punjabi, Urdu and Sanskrit.

In the Science discipline, the college offers B. Sc. Life Science, B. Sc. Physical Science (Chemistry), B. Sc. Physical Science (Computer Science), and B. Sc. (honours) Botany, Chemistry, Computer Science, Mathematics, Physics, Zoology.

In the Commerce discipline, the college offers B. Com and B. Com. (honours).

In the postgraduate level, the college offers M.A. in English and M. Sc. in Mathematics.

For the undergraduate level, fees vary by structure of the course. The first year fee for program courses vary from Rs. 13,905 (B.A.) to Rs. 16,860 (B. Sc. Life Sciences). For the honours courses, the fee varies from Rs. 14,005 to Rs. 17260.

Fee for PwD students for all courses is Rs. 1,070

Scholarships and Financial Assistance at Dyal Singh College
There are a number of scholarships and financial assistance schemes offered by the college for students in need.

Help The Blind Foundation Scholarship

Sponsorship amount of Rs. 10,000/- each is provided to Physically Handicapped (PH) students

Central Sector Scheme Of Scholarship For College And University Students – Awarded by the Ministry of Education to Class XII toppers from each State/Board.

Eligibility: Family income ≤ ₹4.5 lakh per annum, pursuing regular degree courses in recognised institutions, and not availing other scholarships.

Amount: ₹10,000 per year for UG (first three years)

Ishan Uday – Special Scholarship For North Eastern Region (NER)

The scholarship amount is Rs.5400/- per month for general degree courses and Rs.7800/- per month for technical/medical/professional/paramedical courses. For availing scholarship under this scheme, the income of the parents of the student should not exceed Rs.4.5 lakh per annum.

Merit-Cum-Means Scholarship Scheme

Awarded by the Ministry of Minority Affairs for financial assistance to the poor and meritorious students belonging to minority communities in India to enable them to pursue professional and technical courses. Financial assistance is given to pursue graduate-level or postgraduate-level technical and professional courses from a recognised institution.

Inspire – She (Scholarship For Higher Education)

The scheme offers 10,000 scholarships every year at Rs 0.80 lakh per year for the talented youth in the age group 17-22 years, for undertaking Bachelor and Masters level education in natural sciences.

Prime Minister’s Special Scholarship Scheme (PMSSS) J&K

PMS Scholarships are awarded to students having domicile of J&K State and having passed 10+2 Exam or 10+3 Diploma Exam from J&K and whose family income does not exceed Rs. 8 Lakh per annum are eligible for this scheme for pursuing higher studies outside the State of J&K.

E-district Delhi Scholarship

This Sponsorship is provided to Delhi Domicile Students under SC/ST/OBC category by Delhi Government.

All economically weaker section students including SC/ST/OBC/Minority/PwD/General are eligible for the fee concession and financial assistance. The college offers financial assistance to needy and meritorious students via Student Aid Funds and departmental scholarships.

Extracurricular Activities & Student Life at Dyal Singh College
At DSC, student life is marked by a mix of cultural, academic and sports-rich activities. Societies and clubs span debating, dramatics, fine arts, photography, quiz, entrepreneurship, science clubs and departmental associations — enabling holistic development. The major cultural societies are Roots (The Indian Music Society), Jamini (The Fine Arts Society), Xposure (The Film And Photography Society), Cognito (The Debating Society), Spilled Ink (The Creative Writing Society), Quizzing Society, Astitva (The Theatre Society), Resonance (The Western Music Society), Rudra (The Indian Classical Dance Society), Zest (The Western Dance Society). The central South Delhi location of the college enhances exposure to internships, events and industry visits. The campus features sports grounds, courts and student amenity spaces, supporting clubs, festivals and regular student-driven initiatives. The Annual Cultural Festival Priyadarshani sees widespread participation from across the University.

Admissions at Dyal Singh College (Delhi University)

Undergraduate Admissions (UG)

Admission to Dyal Singh College, Delhi University is based on CUET scores and governed by the Common Seat Allocation System (CSAS-UG).

Eligibility requires completion of Class XII (or equivalent) from a recognized board. CUET scores in language, domain subjects, and general tests determine seat allocation.

Applicants should check the DU Admission Portal regularly for updates and ensure subject alignment between Class XII and CUET. There is no age bar for undergraduate programs, and a gap year does not disqualify applicants.

Postgraduate Admissions (PG)

Admissions to PG programs are through CUET-PG, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), followed by CSAS-PG counseling on the Delhi University portal. Seats are allotted based on CUET-PG rank, eligibility, and course preferences. Admission is confirmed after document verification and online fee payment.

Recognition & Rankings

In terms of achievements and recognition, Dyal Singh College holds quite a number of honors-
Dyal Singh College holds accreditation from NAAC with a grade “A”

It is recognized for its academic quality within DU’s ecosystem.
DSC was ranked 36th among colleges in India under NIRF in 2024.
The Placement Cell achieved notable recognition, being awarded 3rd position by “The Education Tree – Delhi College Awards”.

Notable Alumni of Dyal Singh College
Alumni of DSC reflect its diverse legacy across politics, arts and public service. Some of the notable alumni include political, sports and cultural personalities such as Alka Lamba (former Delhi MLA), Priyanka Kothari (actress) and others. The college’s broad alumni network continues to contribute in many professional fields.

Internships & Placements at Dyal Singh College
DSC’s Placement Cell reports strong placement and internship outcomes. For the 2024 cycle 200+ students placed across UG/PG programmes.The highest package was recorded at ₹23.5 LPA. With the median salary recorded around ₹5 LPA.

According to the internships stats, over 270 students secured internships, with maximum stipends up to ₹40,000/month Top recruiters include: KPMG, Ernst & Young (EY GDS), D.E. Shaw Group, Genpact, Accenture, HCL Tech and others.

The company list spans domains including finance, consultancy, analytics, technology and business operations, underscoring DSC’s industry interface.

Along with providing recruitments and internships to the students, the Placement Cell also conducts seminars, webinars, workshops, grooming and counselling sessions throughout the year on various topics to help the students learn and grow.

Image Credits: Dyal Singh College

Mangalya Singh

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Inside Indraprastha College for Women, Delhi University: Courses, Infrastructure, Fees, Student Life & Placements | DU Beat

By DU Beat January 3, 2026

Explore Indraprastha College for Women (IPCW), Delhi University’s oldest women’s college for Humanities, Commerce & Science. Explore updated courses, fees, admissions, campus facilities, student life, and placements.

Established in 1924, Indraprastha College for Women (IP College) is the oldest women’s college under the University of Delhi, renowned for academic excellence in Humanities, Mathematical Sciences, and Commerce. Founded as part of a nationwide movement to promote women’s education and empowerment, its scenic campus is recognized as a heritage site and a landmark of Delhi, reflecting a vision to blend traditional values with modern learning and rational inquiry in the heart of the national capital.

Accredited with an A+ Grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), IP College has maintained a longstanding reputation for academic distinction. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including the self-financed B.A. (Hons.) in Multi-Media and Mass Communication, promoting interdisciplinary studies and holistic development.

Indraprastha College Infrastructure & Campus Facilities

Located in the heart of North Delhi, Indraprastha College for Women (IPCW) sits on a scenic heritage campus that blends colonial architecture with modern academic infrastructure. Its lush lawns, preserved heritage buildings, and technologically advanced facilities make it one of the most beautiful and well-equipped DU campuses.

The classrooms and seminar halls at IPCW are ICT-enabled, spacious, and well-ventilated, featuring projectors and AV support for interactive learning. The campus houses an ICT Centre, Computer Laboratories, Audio-Visual Lecture Theatres (AVLT), and a dedicated Audio-Visual Production Studio with editing bays and radio production units. The Library and Reading Rooms are equipped with extensive print and digital resources through DULS and NLIST, supported by OPAC-enabled access for students.

IP College also boasts specialized research facilities such as the Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies, Centre for Earth Studies, Centre for Sanskrit Studies and Research, and Learning Resource Centre. The Museum and Archives, Cartographic Laboratories, and Exhibition Foyers contribute to a strong culture of research and documentation.

The campus includes a cafeteria, cyber café, photostat and stationery shops, and a book bank. A medical room with a visiting nurse and emergency aid, along with a counseling cell and mental health committee, ensures holistic student well-being. With Wi-Fi connectivity, power backup, and CCTV surveillance, IPCW provides a safe and accessible environment for its students.

Sports and wellness are central to the IPCW experience. The college offers facilities for basketball, tennis, swimming, badminton, athletics, judo, volleyball, archery, and more. It is the only women’s college in Delhi University with a swimming pool, alongside a fitness centre, climbing wall, and walking track. Regular health camps, tournaments, and inter-college meets promote a balance between academics and physical fitness.

The campus hostels—two for students and one for visiting scholars—offer safe and comfortable accommodation. The campus also provides barrier-free access and inclusive infrastructure through its ‘Under One Roof’ Enabling Unit.

Courses Offered at Indraprastha College for Women (IPCW), Delhi University

Indraprastha College for Women (IPCW) offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across Arts, Commerce, and Sciences, blending classical disciplines with modern innovation. The undergraduate courses include B.A. (Hons.) in Economics, English, Hindi, History, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, Sanskrit, Sociology, Geography, and Music; B.A. (Hons.) Multi Media and Mass Communication (BMMMC) – a self-financed program; B.A. Programme with interdisciplinary combinations such as Computer Applications + Economics or Psychology + Sociology; B.Com. (Hons.), and B.Sc. (Hons.) in Computer Science and Mathematics.

The annual fee structure ranges from ₹29,125 to ₹39,125 for most undergraduate programs, with B.A. (Hons.) Psychology priced at ₹37,125, B.A. (Hons.) Geography at ₹39,125, B.Sc. (Hons.) Computer Science at ₹50,625, and the self-financed B.A. (Hons.) Multi Media and Mass Communication (BMMMC) at ₹1,30,025 per year.

Students under the PwBD category pay only ₹5 annually (except BMMMC, where the fee is ₹42,905). For foreign students, an additional ₹18,000 per year is applicable, while Tibetan students are exempt from registration fees. The college reserves the right to revise the fee structure in accordance with Delhi University norms.

Scholarships and Financial Assistance at Indraprastha College for Women

Extracurricular Activities & Student Life at Indraprastha College for Women

Vibrant and diverse, IPCW’s campus life reflects the energy and inclusivity that define the Delhi University experience. The college hosts numerous student societies across academics, performing arts, and social initiatives, nurturing leadership and creativity.

Prominent societies include Abhivyakti (Dramatics), Afroza (Western Dance), Laashya (Contemporary Dance), Mridang (Classical Dance), Alaap (Indian Music), Crotchet (Western Music), and Simulacra (Film & Photography). Intellectual and cultural engagement thrives through the English and Hindi Debating Societies, Quiz Society, Fine Arts Society, and Editorial Societies (English and Hindi).

Social outreach and activism are led by Eco Club (Prakriti), Women’s Development Cell, NSS, North East Society, SPIC MACAY, and the Gandhi Study Circle. These groups regularly organize seminars, workshops, and community events that encourage social awareness and inclusivity.

The college’s annual cultural festival, Shruti, celebrates music, theatre, dance, and art, attracting participants from across DU. Prakriti, the environment fest, promotes sustainability through workshops and green initiatives. Together, these events make IPCW one of the most lively and holistic DU colleges for student engagement.

Admissions at Indraprastha College for Women (Delhi University)

Undergraduate Admissions (UG)

Admission to Indraprastha College for Women is based on CUET-UG scores and governed by the Common Seat Allocation System (CSAS-UG). Candidates must have completed Class XII (or equivalent) from a recognized board. Seat allocation is determined by CUET scores in the relevant subjects, eligibility, and course preferences.

Postgraduate Admissions (PG)

Postgraduate admissions occur through CUET-PG, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), followed by counseling via CSAS-PG on the Delhi University portal. Admission is confirmed after document verification and fee payment.

Recognition & Rankings

Indraprastha College for Women (IPCW) consistently ranks among the top women’s colleges under Delhi Universityfor Humanities and Social Sciences.

NAAC Accreditation: A+ Grade
Affiliation: University of Delhi
Recognized by: University Grants Commission (UGC)
Campus: Recognized as a Delhi Heritage Site
Awards for academic innovation, gender inclusion, and sustainability initiatives

Notable Alumni of Indraprastha College for Women

The alumnae of Indraprastha College for Women, Delhi University, have distinguished themselves in governance, social activism, arts, and journalism. Notable IPCW graduates include Meira Kumar (former Lok Sabha Speaker), Aruna Roy (Magsaysay Award-winning activist), Kanchan Chaudhary Bhattacharya (India’s first woman DGP), Salma Sultan (veteran news anchor), and Jaspinder Narula (singer). Their contributions reflect the college’s commitment to leadership and women’s empowerment.

Internships & Placements at Indraprastha College for Women

The Placement Cell at Indraprastha College for Women (IPCW), Delhi University, serves as a bridge between students and the professional world, offering structured guidance, career counseling, and recruitment opportunities across diverse sectors. Officially known as the Career Counselling and Placement Committee (J.E.E.T.), it stands for Jobs | Entrepreneurship | Excellence | Talent, reflecting the college’s commitment to holistic career development and empowerment. Through collaborations, workshops, and industry interactions, the cell ensures that students are well-prepared to transition seamlessly from academics to employment or higher studies.

In the 2024–25 placement season, IPCW recorded an impressive growth in placement opportunities, conducting over 65 campus drives and onboarding 45 new recruiters. The college facilitated 65 full-time job offers and numerous internship opportunities across fields like Finance, Audit, Sales & Marketing, Business Operations, and Technology. The highest package offered reached ₹24.3 LPA, while the average package stood at ₹6.27 LPA, with the gross CTC amounting to over ₹5.45 crore. Students from Commerce, Economics, and Computer Science streams secured the majority of offers, highlighting IPCW’s academic strength in these disciplines.

Top recruiters in 2024–25 included leading organizations such as Deloitte, KPMG, EY GDS, PwC, Accenture, Nestlé, Swiggy, Zomato, Bain Capability Network, Bajaj Capital, Axis Bank, ICICI Prudential, Cars24, Keventers, and Nation with Namo, among others. A significant milestone this year was Nestlé joining as a recruiting partner for Persons with Disabilities (PWD), reinforcing IPCW’s dedication to inclusive hiring practices and equal opportunities for all students.

Image Credits: DU Beat Archives

Neeraja Unnikrishnan

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Campus Promises: ABVP, NSUI, and SFI–AISA Manifestos 2025

By DU Beat September 15, 2025

With the Delhi University Students’ Union elections approaching, major student organisations have released their manifestos announcing promises, reflecting issues, and revealing both overlaps and contrasts in priorities.

There are significant variances as well as obvious parallels between the ABVP, NSUI, and SFI-AISA coalition manifestos. The goals of these three parties are to solve persistent problems in Delhi University politics, such as women’s safety, campus infrastructure, and affordability. However, each uniquely presents its strategy, answering critiques of earlier DUSU terms and reflecting its ideological foundations.

Student health and welfare have been foregrounded more strongly this year. ABVP explicitly promised, “subsidised health insurance schemes for students”, a measure that responds to recurring demands for affordable healthcare after years of rising living costs. NSUI brought the conversation into the gendered domain, with its women’s manifesto pledging, “helpline numbers, menstrual health awareness, sanitary pad vending machines, and proper gender sensitivity measures.” The SFI-AISA alliance combined health and gender justice, promising menstrual leave and insisting on institutional structures like, “elected Internal Complaints Committees and gender sensitisation cells in all colleges”.

The only organisation to make a specific commitment on digital access is ABVP, which has pledged “free Wi-Fi access for university students.” Although the Left alliance and NSUI did not use the same language to emphasise Wi-Fi, they both emphasised infrastructure and accessibility in more general terms, implying a move away from band-aid technological solutions and towards structural reforms.

The affordability debate remains central, carrying forward unresolved issues from past years, such as fee hikes and opposition to the National Education Policy (NEP). The SFI-AISA alliance has taken the clearest stance, stating that it has, “pledged to oppose fee hikes” and presenting its programme as ‘a true student-centric manifesto.’ NSUI echoed this with calls for, “public funding for equitable education” and a rejection of NEP-linked restructuring. ABVP, while not quoted as directly opposing fee hikes, emphasised subsidised schemes and improved facilities.

Women’s safety and inclusion, an issue repeatedly raised after incidents on campus in previous years, has again appeared prominently. NSUI’s separate women’s manifesto is notable in its detail, listing concrete measures like, “helpline numbers, menstrual health awareness, sanitary pad vending machines, and proper gender sensitivity measures.” The SFI-AISA alliance, in line with its activist tradition, focused on structural reform: “elected Internal Complaints Committees and gender sensitisation cells in all colleges.” ABVP’s framing was broader, with its candidate speeches highlighting campus safety and “accessibility audits for students with special needs.”

Finally, housing and hostels continue to be a major theme, reflecting perennial shortages and past protests by outstation students. ABVP’s manifesto directly included, “construction of new hostels to accommodate growing student needs.” NSUI’s broader call for inclusive infrastructure implicitly covered hostel provisions, while SFI-AISA explicitly folded hostel expansion into its demands for resisting privatisation.

While all parties echo recurring demands like safety, hostels, and digital access, their manifestos also respond to past gaps, some promising continuity, others pledging fresh reforms to long-standing student concerns.

Image Credits: Manan for DU Beat

Anjali Kumari Jha
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Rahul Gandhi’s Tryst with Destiny: The Revival of the Last Gandhi

By Shikhar Pathak July 16, 2024

Sorry, the old RaGa cannot come to the PressCon right now. Why? Oh, cause he’s dead. Let’s explore his journey from the Prince of Political Dynasty, to Pappu, and then Beyond.

Perhaps one of the most interesting things about the General Elections of 2024 was the escalated and expeditious participation from Generation Z, a large strata of whom finally got a direct vote in the election of the Government. This participation was also rooted in the Twitteratis and their constant political pundit-esque commentary that remained persistent throughout this apparent festival of democracy. From the viral “Dimple Bhabhi Hatiye…” tweet to the pookie-fication of Narendra Modi, nobody escaped the brunt of the internet folks. A leading player in the battle for the seat of prime minister was Rahul Gandhi, who displayed a staggering transformation. From him being posted to the edits of ‘Daddy’s Home‘, his subsequent babygirlification and portrayal as the Batman of Indian political scenario et.al., RaGa seemed to be a Twitter favorite; pre, midst, and post the election season. And this, comes as a surprise for someone who has long been ridiculed by both, the politicians and the masses, as ‘Pappu’.

When the National Democratic Alliance, on its third subsequent win, boasts about a new era of Modi 3.0, it is notable that this also embarks the beginning of RaGa 3.0. Something that is even more remarkable is how every epoch of his political career draws a direct parallel to the state of the current opposition in the country. In retrospect it might appear to be a vague statement, however, this opinion piece attempts to substantiate the same, and for that, the political trajectory of Rahul Gandhi needs to be analyzed in a trifactorial manner.

In a political climate that was being conditioned for Priyanka Gandhi to be the new face of the Indian National Congress, with the re-emphasization of her parallels to Indira Gandhi, the launch of Rahul Gandhi as the face of INC was a rather unanticipated change for the politicians and the masses alike. In a direct parallel to Rajneeti (the 2010 Prakash Jha Directiorial’s) Samar Pratap, played by Ranbir Kapoor, ‘a foreign returned relatively less-known to-and-of the political scenario‘ heir was placed into the position of a party supremo. However, that is where the parallels end, while Samar goes on to become a force to reckon with, RaGa displayed a relatively inconsistent political profile. His political prowess at that time focused largely upon as the ‘uniter’ of the nation, working on reducing the caste and religion-based divisiveness in the country. Subsequently, he won from the ancestral seat of Amethi and was popularised as the Yuva Neta, and harbinger of justice, by the media. However, despite this popularised imagery that he had cultivated around himself, he refused to hold positions of power within the INC and rather struck to the youth wings. The launch of RaGa drew a parallel into the INC as it witnessed a rejuvenation of the Gandhi Parivaar within the leadership positions, after 14 years of absence, albeit in an indirect mannerism with Manmohan Singh being the Prime Minister then.

Post the smooth and apparent surged political prowess, the era of Rahul Gandhi 2.0 comes into play with the elections of 2014 and beyond; the General Election of 2014, posed a drastic change in the climate of the Indian Political Scenario, wherein the 10-year streak of the INC was fiercely shattered by the National Democratic Alliance and its figurehead, present Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The dramatic downfall of the INC marked the beginning of RaGa as the undisputed King of Bloopers and the face of Indian Political Memes, the person who was hailed as the Prince of the Politically Dynastic Gandhi Parivar was now ridiculed as ‘Pappu’, and worse. The lack of a proper redressal mechanism from the INC upon the same, and RaGa’s subsequent infamous statements like the ‘potato-gold‘ alchemy theory, the hug in the parliament, misgendering of the Speaker, et.al., cemented the NDA alliances claim of the ‘Shehzada’, in attempts to mock his lack of proper developmental work despite the privilege he was equipped with. A subsequent political debacle also surrounded the Indian National Congress, as it witnessed the lowest-ever tally of 44 seats post the 206-seat mark they achieved in 2009.

Post the 2019 stint of the National Democratic Alliance, and its subsequent chants of Abki Baar, 400 Paar; the public expectation from the erstwhile political bigwig declined, and an absolute majority of the present ruling party was largely accepted and anticipated. Despite the anti-heroic downfall that the INC witnessed, he kept walking (quite literally) and conducted two Nyay Yatras, which is speculated to have become a source of connection between the common man and the INC, and the reason for its subsequent victory in certain places. His newfound oratory skills and social media tactics labeled RaGa as the herald of the change of the apparent de-Modicisation and Democratization of the country. The connection that he attempted to build at a grassroots level, and better redressal skills, led to a surge in the INDIA vote bank, and a subsequent declination in the expected votes for the NDA.

However, RaGa’s relatively newer 3.0 trajectory did not stop there, the 1st July speech in the parliament, ended the era of his silence and negligence regarding the political climate and the flaws of the NDA, as he delivered a speech outlining the very same. The Speech won him further accolades over social media, as the netizens proclaimed that the tectonics of the Indian Political Scenario witnessed a shift that day, the void of an improper Leader of Opposition seemed to be filling. This is followed by his recent visits to places that have been impacted by violence and improper governance like Manipur, Assam, site of Hathras Stampede, loco pilots of Delhi, et.al. This is a clear indication of a political consistency, which he is infamously unknown of. The transition from Pappu to the Leader of Opposition, depicts a shift in the political ball game of the country, a probable subdued indication of the resurgence of the INC, and a new arena into his political trajectory. However, it remains long to be seen whether this political conundrum turns out to be a sham, or has Prime Minister Narendra Modi finally found an able competitor.

Featured Image Credits: X

Shikhar Pathak

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Heavy Rainfall Exposes Infrastructure Failures in Premier Institutes

By DU Beat July 3, 2024

Recent heavy rainfall in the capital on June 28 has exposed severe infrastructural issues, particularly at the Arts Faculty, where the reading room experienced significant water leakages and short circuits. Additionally, other esteemed educational institutes like IIT Delhi and AIIMS Delhi are also witnessing an equally miserable fate.

As Delhi University continues its yearly ritual of exorbitant fee hikes—110% in PhD courses and 40% in annual postgraduate courses—it is important to note that the condition in which DU students have to study remains deplorable. These problems clearly reflect the university’s incompetence and disregard for student safety.

The Students’ Federation of India (SFI) DU’s Instagram page, @sfiduspeaks, posted a reel highlighting the miserable state of one of India’s premier institutions. Captioned “Save Public Education! Save Delhi University! Fee Must Fall!”, the post called for immediate action from the university to address these infrastructural issues. SFI Vijay Nagar has also demanded urgent measures to fix these problems and ensure student safety, noting that the lack of basic amenities like air conditioning in classrooms becomes unbearable when temperatures in Delhi soar to 48 degrees Celsius. The third building, made with makeshift materials like tin roofs and asbestos-lined walls, exacerbates the heat issue, creating an uninhabitable learning environment.

Simran, from SFI DU, in a conversation with DU Beat, said, “Since there is no maintenance in these reading rooms at Arts Faculty, due to heavy rain, the ceiling started to leak and then a short circuit happened, and soon fire also occurred out of nowhere. The main problem is that despite increasing fees they are not improving infrastructure and maintenance at all.”

Additionally, a press release by SFI Delhi University, dated June 27, 2024, highlighted student protests against the fee hikes in postgraduate courses. Students criticized the apathetic Delhi University administration and the ABVP-led Delhi University Students’ Union (DUSU) for their silence on the rising education costs. It showcased how fee hikes place a heavy financial burden on students, undermining the principles of publicly funded education and limiting opportunities. Despite the fee hikes in previous academic years, there has been no corresponding improvement in infrastructure. Students of the well-known Law Faculty often find their campus without even a single functioning water cooler, all while bearing Delhi’s scorching heat.

In addition to Delhi University, other premier institutes in Delhi have also been severely affected by the heavy rainfall. AIIMS Delhi experienced similar issues with severe water leakage on June 28, highlighting the widespread infrastructural problems across top educational institutions in the city.

At IIT Delhi, a viral video showed a pillar collapsing in the placement cell building following the heavy rainfall. This incident led to the disconnection of electricity in some areas for safety reasons. An official email from the Institute Engineer detailed the flooding on campus and stated that maintenance teams are working to restore services. The email requested cooperation from the campus community and apologized for the inconvenience.

These incidents at Delhi University, AIIMS Delhi, and IIT Delhi highlight the urgent need for infrastructural changes and better maintenance protocols, it’s indeed high time that these educational institutes make upgrades to ensure the safety and well-being of their student body, who have come from faraway places in the country to study in “premier institutes” in the capital. Despite significant fee hikes, these institutions have failed to invest adequately in their infrastructure, leading to dangerous and unacceptable learning conditions. As students and stakeholders wonder, “Where is our money going?”, they are now demanding accountability and immediate improvements to their educational environments.

Featured image credits: Devesh for DU Beat

Kavya Vashisht

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Delhi University to Introduce Biannual Admissions Next Year

By DU Beat June 17, 2024

In a significant change to its admissions process, Delhi University has now decided to implement a twice-a-year admission system for selected courses starting from the next academic session.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced a significant decision starting from the academic year 2024–25, wherein colleges and universities in India will be able to offer admissions twice a year. This change will allow institutions to run two academic sessions annually instead of one, enabling them to admit students biannually, according to the commission’s chairperson, M. Jagadesh Kumar, on Tuesday.

Currently, universities and colleges admit students annually, typically in July-August, for the regular mode. However, following the UGC decision announced on Tuesday, institutions will now have the option to admit students twice a year: once in January-February and in July-August.

Delhi University has decided to introduce a twice-a-year admission system starting from the next academic session, beginning with a pilot project for selected courses, Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh informed PTI. Singh commented,

This is a positive initiative by the UGC for the benefit of students. However, achieving full implementation will take time due to the need for additional infrastructure to accommodate the increased number of students.

This decision, as per Jagadesh Kumar, aims to enhance flexibility for both institutions and students, addressing diverse academic and logistical requirements. Additionally, introducing dual admission cycles offers students who miss the traditional intake period another chance to enroll promptly, avoiding a year-long wait.

The UGC’s decision grants institutions autonomy to choose between adopting both admission cycles or sticking to just one. However, concerns have been raised regarding issues such as infrastructure readiness, faculty availability, flexibility in implementation, and the need for clearer guidelines.

“Do I need to take CUET again?”

Anika, a 19-year-old aspiring to pursue a B.A. (Hons.) in English at Delhi University this year, voices her concern over the ambiguous guidelines regarding biannual admissions:

There are no clear guidelines on whether the CUET will be conducted twice a year or not. There is currently no guidance on the admission process for the January cycle.

“DU Cannot Accommodate.”

Shambhavi, a 20-year-old student at Delhi University, voices apprehensions regarding the university’s infrastructure readiness to handle two batches per year. She points out:

Every day, there are concerns about the accessibility of DU hostels to a larger number of students, particularly since some colleges lack hostels altogether. Given the current limitations in facilities at DU, including classrooms and hostels that can barely accommodate a handful of students, it is evident that the university is ill-prepared for two intake cycles.”

Teachers have also voiced their concerns, describing the announcement as “confusing” and noting it was made without engaging in “conversation” with stakeholders.

“Concerns Over System Alignment and Feasibility”

As per the reports, Debraj Mookerjee, associate professor of English at Delhi University’s Ramjas College, said,

These changes have to emerge out of a conversation; they can’t just come out because you want to be part of the American system. Forget feasibility; the university is already hamstrung by two exams; the NEP has seven exams. I don’t know what he is trying to say. In India, there is a calendar. How does one switch from that? The American system is compartmentalized; there is no concept of first year, second year, or third year, unlike here.”

“Admission and Teaching Delays, Again.”

As per the reports, Moushumi Basu, President of the JNU Teachers’ Association (JNUTA), expressed concerns over the impact of delayed entrance examinations conducted by the NTA on the academic calendars of universities like JNU. She remarked,

The university struggles to manage the process once—how can they contemplate doing it twice? The UGC, in proposing such recommendations, appears to have insufficiently considered the practical challenges at ground level.”

Utkarsh, a third-year undergraduate student at Moti Lal Nehru College, raises concerns about the potential impact on teaching quality if admissions are conducted twice a year.

DU already takes a long time to wrap up everything, which greatly affects syllabus completion and teaching. There are occasions when we struggle to cover the entire syllabus. We are uncertain how they plan to streamline this process.”

“Amity’s VC flags alignment and infrastructural concerns.”

According to Hindustan Times reports, Balvinder Shukla, Vice Chancellor of Amity University, welcomed the initiative but voiced concerns about whether Indian institutions have sufficient infrastructure to support two admission cycles.

There are a lot of things to consider before jumping into a decision. Moreover, school academic sessions and the beginning of college admissions are aligned in a certain way. There is a possibility that applications during the January cycle will be very low,”

– Shukla said.

“I might get another chance.”

While some students raise concerns, others support the decision and welcome it. Aditi, a 19-year-old student, expresses her viewpoint:

I feel more secure knowing that if someone doesn’t do well in round 1, they’ll have another chance to try.”

Last year, the UGC permitted bi-annual admissions for students in open and distance learning, as well as online modes. The UGC chairman highlighted that this decision benefited nearly half a million students by enabling them to start their degree programs without waiting for a full academic year. This success prompted the decision to extend bi-annual admissions to regular modes as well.

Featured Image Credits: Devesh Arya for DU Beat

Dhairya Chhabra

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Campus Central

Delhi HC Orders Assessment of Facilities at DU Law Faculty

By DU Beat June 17, 2024

The Delhi High Court has taken significant steps to address concerns raised by law students regarding the inadequate availability of basic amenities and infrastructure at Delhi University’s Faculty of Law. The court has instructed DU to convene a meeting with all relevant stakeholders within a week to evaluate and improve the situation.

In a recent order, Justice Amit Sharma directed the university to hold a meeting involving key stakeholders, including the Dean of Students’ Welfare, the Dean of the Faculty of Law, the petitioners, and the amicus curiae, advocate Rajesh Mishra, who was appointed by the court. The focus of this meeting will be to assess the facilities, particularly the provision of water coolers, purified drinking water, and Wi-Fi services.

The petition was filed by three law students, Ronak Khatri, Umesh Kumar, and Ankur Singh Mavi, who cited severe deficiencies in the basic amenities on their campus. One of their primary concerns was the lack of air conditioning in classrooms, which makes the learning environment unbearable during Delhi’s extreme summer temperatures, which can reach up to 48 degrees Celsius. The students noted a stark contrast between the air-conditioned administrative offices and staff rooms and their own poorly ventilated classrooms.

Additionally, the petition highlighted that one of the campus buildings, constructed with tin roofs and asbestos-lined walls, exacerbates the heat issue, creating an uninhabitable learning environment. They reported instances of heat strokes and fainting, illustrating the dire need for improved infrastructure.

Moreover, the student petitioners argued that the inadequate infrastructure and lack of essential amenities constitute a violation of their fundamental rights under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantees the right to life and, by extension, the right to education. They stressed that the current conditions pose significant safety risks and are not conducive to learning.

Justice Sharma’s bench issued notices to the Secretary of the Bar Council of India (BCI) and DU’s Dean of Students’ Welfare, seeking their responses to the petition. The court emphasized the necessity of a detailed assessment and required a report on the current status of facilities to be submitted before the next hearing on July 4, 2024.

The court also pointed out the importance of this meeting being well-coordinated by the respondents’ counsel to ensure a comprehensive evaluation and prompt improvement of the facilities.

While the respondents’ counsel informed the court that provisions for water coolers and drinking water are in place, the court’s directive underscores the need for a thorough review to confirm that these amenities meet the required standards and adequately serve the student population.

The forthcoming report from the stakeholders’ meeting will be critical in determining the actions DU will take to address these significant concerns and uphold the students’ rights.

Featured Image Credits: The Times of India

Kavya Vashisht

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Campus Central

DU Admin Cancels Event by ‘Brahmins of DU’

By Shikhar Pathak May 12, 2024

An event by the student group ‘Brahmins of DU’, sponsored by the University of Delhi, was supposed to be held on May 10, 2024, i.e., Friday. However, the event faced protests from the left-bloc of student politics, alleging casteist and discriminatory sentiments, causing the event to be consequently canceled.

In the continual skepticism over the democratic nature of Delhi University and the inherent ‘saffronization’ and ‘brahmanization’ that is allegedly being promoted by the university, there was yet another DU-Admin-sponsored event organized by the student wing, ‘Brahmins of DU’. The university-wide association announced an event titled ‘Brahmins and the Tapestry of Hindu Civilization: Weaving Bhartiya Heritage and Calling Astikas to Fulfill Rșiṛṇa’ that was programmed to take place on May 10, 2024, at the Conference Center of the North Campus, along with a campus-wide ‘Shobha Yatra‘ on the same day.

The event received widespread backlash from the student community, citing its alleged casteist approach. This was further vitalized by claims from Professor Abha Dev Habib, an Assistant Professor at DU, who, in conversation with EdexLive, cited a recent example of how events are being ‘policed’ and ‘restricted’ and a poetry reading session on the Palestinian crisis that was supposed to be held on April 15 was canceled by the university ‘without citing any valid reason’. In opposition to the event by ‘Brahmins of DU’, the Students’ Federation of India (SFI), under the umbrella of Humans of DU, organized a parallel event on the same date, i.e., May 10, 2024, at the Arts Faculty. The event organized was a photo exhibition and open mic themed around the ‘Saffronization’ of DU and against the ‘Normalization of Casteist Politics on the Campus’. Students university-wide joined the event in solidarity with the cause and presented their ideas, pieces, and writings, and the words of prominent Dalit writers like Omprakash Valmiki were also echoed.

Aditi, State Committee Member SFI Delhi, adds about how the undertakings in the university are a “direct reflection of the societal tapestry of our country”, expressing her fear over an ‘uncertain future’ wherein incidents like the “recent TISS debacle could be replicated in Delhi University”. She further states that, with opposition events like this:

we will not let them destroy the dissent, debate, and other progressive nature of our campus.

Besides SFI, the All India Student Association, AISA, also made a post on Instagram condemning the event, stating:

Their ideologies promote hatred, discrimination, and division, which directly contradict the values of equality, solidarity, and social justice.

While the SFI Event was an alleged success in presenting their opposition to the events and undertakings held by the group Brahmins of DU, the event organized by Brahmins of DU did not materialize. In a consequent press release, SFI states that fervent backlash and dissent from “progressive student pressure groups” and political bodies compelled the administration to call off the event organized by ‘Brahmins of DU’ eventually.

Featured Image Credits: SFI Official Instagram

Shikhar Pathak

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Features

Sugarcoated Nightmares: Pepsi’s “Special Treatment” for Women in Maharashtra

By DU Beat May 8, 2024

In the heart of Maharashtra’s sugarcane fields, a sinister reality unfolds as women laboring
for giants like Pepsi and Coca-Cola face exploitation through forced hysterectomies,
overshadowed by corporate profits.

About a third of the sugar produced in India, the second-largest producer in the world, comes
from the state of Maharashtra alone. Maharashtra is a key supplier of sugar to global
corporations such as PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, and Mondelez, the parent company of Cadbury. The state
prides itself on the sprawling 1.487 million hectares of lush sugar cane fields with about
203 crushing factories producing 138 lakh metric tons of sugar every year becoming the
state’s major support system. One such district is Beed, although this one in particular is one
that the state shouldn’t be proud of.

This picturesque field of Maharashtra hides a darker reality – the exploitation of women at the
hands of sugar-producing companies. While these companies reap immense profits from the
sweet harvest, the women toiling in the fields are left to endure the bitter impacts on their
health. The issue dates back almost 30 years, when the New York Times interviewed some of
the women working in the fields to find out that the vicious cycle starts with underage girls
getting married off to the men working in the field which ropes them into a contract that seems more like lifelong slavery than wedlock. The men and women are expected to work alike at the same potential for 16-hour-long shifts every day without breaks. Tampons and pads are expensive and hard to find, and without access to running water, women address their periods in the fields with reused cloth that they try to wash by hand. The fields are located in remote locations, and it’s a whole other world in itself with workers
living under tarps, and companies seeking forced hysterectomies as a way to combat the issue of
lack of washrooms on the field.

One local government report surveyed approximately 82,000 female sugarcane workers from
Beed and found that about one in five had had hysterectomies. A separate, smaller
government survey estimated the figure at one in three. Women, already marginalized and
disadvantaged, are coerced into undergoing these surgeries under the guise of ‘health
benefits’ or as a means to prevent pregnancy or period leaves from work. This reprehensible
practice not only robs women of their bodily autonomy but also perpetuates a cycle of
systematic abuse and inequality. The issue at hand unveils a centuries-old taboo enveloping
menstruation, casting a shadow of “unsanitary” perceptions upon women during their natural
cycle. This mindset, steeped in misconception and bias, tragically manifests in the coercion of
women into undergoing hysterectomies, all in the name of the illusion of “cleanliness” on the
fields.

According to the New York Times, sugar producers and buyers have known about this abusive system for years. Coca-Cola’s consultants, for example, visited the fields and sugar mills of western India and, in 2019, reported that children were cutting sugar cane and laborers were working to repay their employers. They documented this in a report for the company, complete with an interview with a 10-year-old girl. In an unrelated corporate report that year, the company said it supported a program to “gradually reduce child labor” in India possibly referring to their plans to increase hysterectomies. This Great Indian exploitation game is nothing less of a spectacle, when women working in these harsh conditions visit the nearby gynecologists with problems like forming of cysts and irregular periods, the doctors take advantage of their patients’ illiteracy and are given an ultimatum that “hysterectomy” is their only option. The whole process is orchestrated not only by the companies but also many health practitioners from the district. These major companies even have moral codes of conduct for their workers which they evidently throw out the window in a bid to make corporate profits. After facing backlash and solely because people threatened to boycott the brand, Pepsi released the most generic statement expressing their grief over the issue while Coca-Cola still hasn’t issued a statement and continues to live in ignorance.

Of the many stories that flood the Indian news channels, none have ever made reports on this
issue, it’s as if they would rather turn a deaf ear than face the truth. In conversations with
reporters from The Fuller Project, as the workers gave them a peek inside their lives, they
sang folk songs which were inspired by Bhimrao Ambedkar in unison and had only thing to
ask everyone who visits the field, a promise; that one day the world will know their plight.

Featured Image Credits: The Fuller Project

Read Also: Feminism: A Belief or a Tagline?

Saanvi Manchanda
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‘Model Code of Conduct Violated’: DU Under Fire for ‘Run for Viksit Bharat’ Event

By DU Beat May 7, 2024

Delhi University’s scheduled ‘Run for Developed India’ event on May 8, aimed at raising awareness of India’s developmental aspirations, faces backlash over alleged political affiliations amidst ongoing Lok Sabha elections. While university officials maintain non-partisanship, the involvement of a BJP member in planning sparks concern. Critics, including the Delhi University Teachers’ Front (DTF), accuse the administration of breaching the Election Commission’s Model Code of Conduct. Amidst debates, the DTF urges cancellation, citing potential disruption to academic schedules and electoral integrity concerns.

Nearly 5,000 students are anticipated to participate in Delhi University’s (DU) May 8 “Run for Developed India,” according to the university’s registrar, Vikas Gupta. The university declared that the run’s objective is to increase public awareness of India’s aspiration to become a developed country by 2047.

In response to queries concerning the event’s scheduling in light of the current Lok Sabha elections and the Model Code of Conduct’s (MCC) implementation, Gupta made it clear to The Indian Express that the run has no affiliation with any one political party. He underlined that the main goal is to inspire students to use their right to vote to engage in the political process.

The University of Delhi and the Vikas Bharat Ambassador Club are co-organizing the event, the university declared. However, Kuljeet Chahal of the BJP was present at the planning and success-ensuring meeting. Chahal, a member of the New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) and the national convener of the Namo app, describes himself on X (formerly Twitter) as a “Viksit Bharat Ambassador.” There was no response when attempts were made to contact Chahal. The 2.4-kilometer run is scheduled to happen between University Gate No. 1 and the University sports complex, neither of which is governed by the NDMC, according to the university.

With the release of the election dates on March 16, the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) went into force. In an announcement posted on its website on March 21, the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) Secretariat ordered the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology to stop “disseminating messages about Viksit Bharat during the Model Code of Conduct.” About WhatsApp messages sent on March 15, before the implementation of the MCC, the statement mentioned that “some messages may have been delivered late due to system architecture and network limitations.”

The Commission further received complaints indicating that such messages continue to be delivered to citizens’ phones. “Given that the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) is currently in effect, you are instructed to take immediate measures to halt the dissemination of WhatsApp messages during the MCC period. A report confirming compliance with this directive should be provided promptly,” it continued.

When questioned about obtaining permission from the ECI, Gupta responded:

This event is organized by the university and colleges to inspire students. We are not collaborating with any political party or involving any ministry.

In a joint statement, the teachers’ body declared that “Viksit Bharat” is an election agenda for Narendra Modi and the BJP-led Central government. The university was urged to cancel the event by members of the Delhi University Teachers’ Front (DTF). However, the teachers’ organization claimed that the program is being run against the Election Commission’s (EC) Model Code of Conduct, which was in effect during the Lok Sabha elections.

The teachers’ body noted in its statement that:

Previously, the EC had legally admonished the Union Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology for circulating messages about the ‘Viksit Bharat Abhiyan’ in March 2024.

The forthcoming event is not politically connected, and it should be judged on its own merits rather than its affiliation with any one party.

– stressed A. K. Bhagi, president of the DU Teachers’ Association.

The teachers association stated:

In the run-up to this proposed violation of the model code of conduct, a functionary of the ruling party in the incumbent Union government has been involved in preparatory activities. It is clear that a public institution is seeking to be converted into an appendage of the outgoing ruling dispensation to influence the decisions of voters. If this were not the case, then this event could have been scheduled for a date after the Lok Sabha elections have been concluded. Surely, Bharat needs Vikas through an Abhiyan even after the first week of June 2024.

In a statement made public on Friday, the DTF questioned the rationale offered by the Delhi University administration for putting on the event. It was suggested that the event should have been called “Run for Participative Democracy” rather than “Run for Viksit Bharat” if the goal was to raise awareness of and participation in the Lok Sabha elections. Moreover, the DTF maintains that the Election Commission should have been consulted and involved in advance of any event intended to raise voter awareness and participation.

Nandita Narain, president of the DTF, voiced worries about how the event would affect the students, saying:

Delhi University is failing in its responsibility towards students. Colleges will be forced to send students to this event. It is the fag end of the teaching-learning calendar. Practical exams are already scheduled, and students are busy preparing for exams and submissions. Scheduling this event at such a time will disrupt the teaching-learning process as well as the ability of students to prepare themselves academically for the forthcoming end-semester exams.

The Delhi University administration came under fire from the DTF for what they saw as an attempt to compromise the university’s standing as a public institution and break the Model Code of Conduct that the Election Commission was enforcing in light of the Lok Sabha elections. They demanded that the event be called off right away.

Featured Image Credits: Himanshu Kumar for DU Beat

Divya Malhotra

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