UGC to introduce one-year LLM programme

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has decided to introduce a one-year LLM programme in universities from academic year 2013-14.

As per the UGC website, an expert committee constituted by the UGC has submitted the guidelines for introduction of the one-year LLM programme. The programme will be introduced only in universities/ institutions with a centre for post graduate legal studies. The universities fulfilling guidelines will be allowed to conduct the one-year programme.

The main reason the UGC is converting the two-year programme to a one-year course is to prevent brain drain of law students, said the principal of a reputed law college in the city.

Developed countries have one-year post graduation programme. Indian students prefer to study and subsequently work there which is a major cause for worry for our country. Hence, the UGC is introducing this programme. However, reducing a year without ensuring proper infrastructure in colleges will harm students.

UGC prescribes 90 days of compulsory teaching for LLB courses. The university starts colleges in June-end and conducts exams in the first week of October following which the colleges are closed for holidays. Hence, many things prescribed by UGC remain on paper. Similarly, the guidelines for the new course will also be violated, thereby affecting students.