
New Delhi. : Delhi University (DU) is set to introduce a PhD programme in Hindu Studies in the 2025-26 academic session. This initiative aims to deepen academic exploration in areas such as ancient texts, philosophy, culture, and traditions, offering advanced research opportunities in this specialised field.
Key Highlights of the Hindu Studies PhD Programme
- Programme Objectives
- Focus on ancient texts, philosophy, culture, and traditions.
- Provide advanced research opportunities for students interested in Hindu Studies.
- Encourage academic exploration in a growing field of study.
Initial Seat Availability
- The programme will begin with 10 seats, including reserved and supernumerary categories.
- Seat capacity may expand in future sessions based on academic and infrastructural needs.
Development and Approval Process
- The Centre for Hindu Studies proposed the programme, supported by its Governing Body’s decision on June 21, 2024.
- The Academic Council of DU will review the proposal on December 27, 2024.
- Upon approval, the recommendation will be forwarded to the Executive Council, DU’s highest decision-making body, for final clearance.
Prerna Malhotra, Joint Director of the Centre for Hindu Studies, remarked that there is significant interest among students, particularly those with JRF and NET qualifications in Hindu Studies.
Eligibility Criteria
- Educational Qualification: A Master’s degree in Hindu Studies or related disciplines with a minimum of 55% marks.
- Entrance Requirement: Candidates must qualify through JRF/NET or DU’s PhD entrance examination.
- Relaxations: Reserved category candidates will receive relaxations as per the PhD Information Bulletin.
Research Supervision
Until permanent faculty appointments are made, research guidance will be provided by faculty members from allied departments and colleges within DU who possess relevant expertise and have expressed interest in supervising students.
Background and Existing Programmes
DU currently offers a two-year Master’s programme in Hindu Studies, launched in 2023 with a focus on Brahmanical texts. The Centre for Hindu Studies enrolled its first MA batch in November 2023, marking a significant step in advancing academic and research opportunities in the field.
The introduction of the PhD programme in Hindu Studies reinforces DU’s commitment to fostering scholarly research and providing students with opportunities to delve deeper into this specialised area.
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