Is there any reservation of seats for economically weaker sections (EW...
Yes, there is a reservation of seats for economically weaker sections (EWS) candidates in the UGC NET Exam. The reservation policy for EWS candidates was introduced by the Government of India in 2019 to ensure equal opportunities for candidates from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Reservation Policy:
The reservation policy for EWS candidates in the UGC NET Exam is as follows:
1. 10% Reservation: 10% of the total seats are reserved for candidates belonging to the economically weaker sections (EWS) category.
2. Eligibility Criteria: To avail the reservation benefits, candidates must meet the eligibility criteria set by the government. The annual family income of the candidate should be below the specified threshold, which is currently set at Rs. 8 lakhs per annum.
3. Reservation within Reservation: The 10% reservation for EWS candidates is separate from the existing reservation for other categories such as SC, ST, OBC, etc. This means that candidates from the EWS category can also avail the benefits of reservation under their respective categories.
4. Seat Allocation: The reserved seats for EWS candidates are allocated on a merit-cum-reservation basis. This means that the candidates must meet the minimum eligibility criteria and qualify in the UGC NET Exam to be considered for the reserved seats.
5. Reservation Certificate: Candidates belonging to the EWS category are required to obtain a valid EWS certificate issued by the competent government authority. The certificate should be in the prescribed format and should mention the candidate's annual family income.
6. Verification Process: The EWS certificate provided by the candidates will be verified by the concerned authorities during the admission process. If any candidate is found to have obtained the certificate through fraudulent means, their candidature may be canceled.
7. Implementation: The reservation policy for EWS candidates in the UGC NET Exam is implemented by the National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducts the examination. The NTA ensures that the reservation guidelines are followed and the benefits reach the eligible candidates.
Conclusion:
The reservation of seats for economically weaker sections (EWS) candidates in the UGC NET Exam provides a level playing field for candidates from disadvantaged backgrounds. It ensures that meritorious candidates from the EWS category have equal opportunities to pursue higher education and contribute to the academic field.