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Why Nagpur University Struggles in Rankings: Key Issues Affecting RTMNU

Writer: thenewsdirtthenewsdirt
Feb 155 min read
Why Nagpur University Struggles in Rankings
Why Nagpur University Struggles in Rankings

Higher education institutions are often judged by the quality of their academics, faculty expertise, research contributions, and student outcomes.


Some universities achieve excellence in these areas, consistently earning top ranks in national and global assessments.


Others struggle to keep pace with evolving academic and industry standards. Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University (RTMNU), one of the oldest institutions in Central India, finds itself in the latter category.


While it holds a significant place in history, questions persist about its current standing, with students and academicians raising concerns about outdated curricula, examination patterns, faculty shortages, and institutional management.


Where RTMNU Stands in National and Global Rankings


Rankings offer a measurable reflection of a university’s academic standing. RTMNU’s position in India’s National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) has consistently remained in the 151–200 band, a placement far below the country’s leading universities.


The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in Delhi, and Banaras Hindu University (BHU) consistently occupy the top spots due to their emphasis on research, modern pedagogy, and global collaborations.


Comparisons with these institutions highlight a clear gap in areas such as research funding, faculty qualifications, and student employability.


On a global level, the University Ranking by Academic Performance (URAP) placed RTMNU at 2,739th in 2023. Certain fields, such as Radiochemistry, have performed relatively well, with the university securing a rank of 756th in that category.


However, such isolated successes do little to improve the university’s overall academic perception. Institutions that rank higher tend to have modern facilities, strong research output, and industry-aligned programmes, all of which contribute to better placements and academic achievements.


Allegations of Mismanagement and Corruption


Concerns about financial mismanagement at Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University (RTMNU) have surfaced in recent years, with audits and investigations uncovering multiple irregularities.


These issues have drawn attention to how the university handles its funds and administrative procedures.



An audit of the university’s finances for the 2023-24 fiscal year revealed unadjusted examination advances amounting to ₹10.67 crore. The report also exposed a fraud of ₹55 lakh, raising concerns about how financial transactions are monitored.

The findings were presented during a senate meeting, where the scale of financial mismanagement became a key discussion point.


Additionally, a case of embezzlement came to light involving Babita Nitin Masram, a cashier in RTMNU's Finance & Accounts Department. Between 2019 and 2023, she allegedly manipulated official receipts to siphon ₹44.40 lakh.


A police complaint led to charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code related to fraud and forgery. Investigators found discrepancies in how funds were collected and recorded, pointing to lapses in financial oversight.



In February 2024, Vice-Chancellor Subhash Chaudhari was suspended over allegations of corruption linked to the awarding of examination-related contracts without following due process.

The investigation focused on the university’s dealings with Maharashtra Knowledge Corporation Limited (MKCL). The decision to suspend Chaudhari came after evidence suggested that procedural violations had taken place, leading to further scrutiny of RTMNU’s administrative practices.


These incidents have intensified concerns over financial governance at RTMNU. The recurring nature of such cases suggests that systemic issues may be affecting the university’s administrative framework.


While investigations and disciplinary actions have been undertaken, questions remain about the effectiveness of the university’s internal controls and accountability mechanisms.



Persistent Issues Affecting RTMNU’s Reputation

Nagpur University
Nagpur University

Beyond rankings, concerns regarding the university’s administration, academic structure, and student experience continue to mount. Several factors contribute to its struggle to climb the ranks, many of which have been subjects of long-standing discussions.


Outdated Curriculum and Course Removals

A modern curriculum plays a crucial role in preparing students for professional careers. Universities globally update their courses regularly to incorporate technological advancements and industry shifts.


However, in 2013, reports surfaced that RTMNU’s Master of Education (M.Ed.) programme had been following a syllabus that had not been revised for 22 years.


This delay in curriculum updates left students at a disadvantage compared to their counterparts from institutions that integrate contemporary research and industry requirements.


Efforts to restructure certain programmes have resulted in the discontinuation of multiple courses. In 2017, RTMNU removed 60 programmes, citing low student interest and a lack of faculty.


Many of these were language courses, which were deemed unsustainable due to declining enrolment figures.


More recently, in 2024, the university scrapped the Certificate in Clinical Nutrition and Patient Counselling, as well as the Postgraduate Diploma in Human Rights & Duties Education.

While such actions may aim to streamline academic offerings, they also raise concerns about whether students have access to diverse learning opportunities.


Concerns About Examination and Evaluation Systems

The university’s examination system has frequently been criticised for its inconsistency. Students have voiced concerns over erratic grading, with some alleging that their scores have been unexpectedly lower despite strong academic performances in internal assessments.


Complaints about revaluation delays and discrepancies in mark sheets have been persistent over the years, contributing to student dissatisfaction.


An inefficient examination process also affects the overall academic experience. Delays in announcing results, errors in grade calculations, and slow response times in handling grievances have often been highlighted.


Such issues not only affect students' career prospects but also influence the university’s credibility in academic circles.


Faculty and Infrastructure Deficiencies

A university’s strength lies in the quality of its educators and the resources available for learning. Reports indicate that RTMNU has struggled with faculty shortages in several departments.


In 2017, it was revealed that 40 affiliated colleges under the university lacked essential teaching staff and infrastructure, leading to a freeze on new admissions in those institutions.


The absence of experienced educators limits students' exposure to advanced research and practical knowledge, which are essential for competitive job markets and higher studies.


Infrastructure limitations have also hindered the learning environment. Laboratories, libraries, and research centres play a vital role in education, particularly in science and technology disciplines. While some colleges affiliated with RTMNU have made efforts to modernise, reports suggest that many institutions still lack up-to-date facilities.


A University in Transition


RTMNU remains a significant institution in Maharashtra, but its academic challenges cannot be ignored.


The university has a long history, and many of its alumni have gone on to achieve professional success.


However, concerns over outdated syllabi, faculty shortages, inefficient examination processes, and administrative shortcomings continue to overshadow its legacy.



As academic standards evolve, institutions that fail to adapt find themselves struggling to compete with better-ranked universities.

RTMNU’s current position in national and global rankings reflects the pressing need for structural improvements. While certain programmes have gained recognition, the overall picture remains complex.


As the education landscape shifts, how RTMNU navigates these challenges will determine its standing in the years to come.



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