The Union government has instructed higher educational institutions (HEIs) to broadcast Prime Minister Narendra Modis address on Wednesday, March 13, as he inaugurates semiconductor facilities in Gujarat and Assam. This move is seen as an attempt to engage with first-time voters ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, before the enforcement of the model code of conduct.The semiconductor facilities are being established in Gujarats Dholera and Sanand, as well as Morigaon in Assam. However, some educators have criticized the governments directive, labeling it as a propaganda program and alleging interference with the autonomy of HEIs.The Ministry of Education has instructed institutions to display Viksit Bharat posters featuring images of Prime Minister Modi at the event venues. Additionally, institutions under its jurisdiction are required to submit compliance reports following the event. Both the ministry and the University Grants Commission (UGC) have issued a standard operating procedure (SOP) and a background note to all universities, including state and private universities, detailing the events protocol.In a letter addressed to vice-chancellors, the UGC has attached designs of five posters to be displayed at the venues, emphasizing the theme of Indias Techade: Chips for Viksit Bharat and featuring images of Prime Minister Modi laying the foundation stone for the semiconductor facilities.Abha Dev Habib, a faculty member at Miranda House College, criticized the governments directives, describing them as a top-down approach aimed at promoting propaganda ahead of the elections. Similarly, Ashok Agrawal, a member of the executive council of Delhi University, condemned the politically motivated directives, asserting the autonomy of institutions and warning against government reprisal for non-compliance.This isnt the first instance of the UGCs involvement in such initiatives. Earlier this year, institutions were urged to display the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) logo to promote awareness about gender equality. In December last year, the UGC had advised universities to establish selfie points featuring Prime Minister Modi, promoting collective pride in Indias achievements. Moreover, HEIs in Maharashtra were encouraged to participate in celebrations commemorating the birth centenary of RSS leader Dattaji Didolkar, further raising concerns about the politicization of educational institutions.
