In a decisive move to ensure academic integrity and real-world competence, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has prohibited Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) from offering allied health programs such as psychology, food and nutrition science, microbiology, biotechnology, clinical nutrition, and dietetics via Open and Distance Learning (ODL) or online modes beginning with the July–August 2025 session. This policy was ratified during the UGC’s 592nd meeting on July 23, 2025, following recommendations from the Distance Education Bureau’s Working Group in April 2025.

Previously granted approvals for these courses will now be withdrawn, and institutions are barred from admitting students to such programs from the specified academic session onward. The core rationale? These disciplines rely heavily on clinical practice, lab work, and face-to-face supervision, which, according to UGC, cannot be adequately replicated through remote learning.

This directive expands previous restrictions on professional streams like engineering, medicine, nursing, law, and hotel management. By targeting additional allied health fields, the UGC underscores its commitment to maintaining rigorous standards in practical education. As a result, students must seek these credentials through conventional, campus-based programs to ensure their training remains valid and accredited.