Delhi University is set to introduce a PhD program in Hindu Studies for the 2025-26 academic year, following a proposal from a Standing Committee.
The Governing Body of the Centre for Hindu Studies has suggested that this PhD program commence in 2025-26.
Originally, the program was planned for the current academic session, but that timeline has been postponed. The initiative to establish a PhD in Hindu Studies is intended to create more opportunities for students, as noted by Prerna Malhotra, the Joint Director of the Centre for Hindu Studies.
“Our Governing Board has recommended the launch of a PhD in Hindu Studies, and we will present this to the Academic Council. We have received numerous inquiries from students about research opportunities, particularly those who have completed the JRF and NET in Hindu Studies. As a leading institution, Delhi University is dedicated to providing these opportunities and furthering research in various aspects of Hindu Studies,” she explained to PTI.
Initially, the Centre for Hindu Studies plans to offer 10 seats, including those for reservation and supernumerary categories, with the possibility of increasing this number in the future based on the Centre’s infrastructure and academic needs, as outlined in the proposal.
The Academic Council of DU is scheduled to review the recommendation at its meeting on December 27. After the Council’s approval, the proposal will then be forwarded to the Executive Council, the university’s top decision-making body.
According to the proposal, “Following the decision made by the Governing Body of the Centre for Hindu Studies on June 21, 2024, it was resolved to recommend the initiation of a PhD in Hindu Studies beginning in the academic session 2025-26.”
The eligibility criteria for the PhD program will be in accordance with Delhi University’s guidelines. Applicants are required to possess a Master’s degree in Hindu Studies or related disciplines with a minimum of 55 per cent marks and must qualify for JRF/NET or succeed in the university’s PhD eligibility test. Relaxations will apply for reserved categories as mentioned in the PhD Information Bulletin.
Until permanent faculty is appointed, research supervision will be carried out by faculty from related departments and colleges within the university who have relevant expertise in Hindu Studies and are interested in participating.
Currently, Delhi University only offers a two-year Master’s program in Hindu Studies. The Centre for Hindu Studies, which focuses on Brahmanical texts, began its first MA batch in November 2023 after its establishment in 2023.
