In the evolving landscape of higher education, research is no longer a peripheral activity but a central pillar that defines the academic excellence of a university. Sant Gahira Guru Vishwavidyalaya, formerly known as Sarguja University, has significantly advanced its research capabilities over the years. Located in the tribal-dominated region of Ambikapur, Chhattisgarh, the university is not only a hub for mainstream education but also a centre of progressive research that reflects the region’s socio-economic and environmental context.
Recognising the need for evidence-based knowledge and innovation, the university has developed specialised research centres, promoted interdisciplinary studies, and introduced well-regulated Ph.D. programs. These initiatives aim to foster a research culture among faculty members and students alike. The university’s efforts align with national education goals and support the implementation of policies like the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasises research-driven academia.
Ph.D. programs at Sant Gahira Guru Vishwavidyalaya are designed to promote both fundamental and applied research. With a transparent admission process, clear guidelines, and ethical research standards, the university provides aspiring scholars with a platform to explore, analyse, and contribute to their respective disciplines. The impact of this focus is visible in the increasing number of research papers, collaborative projects, and community-linked studies.
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Structure of Research and Ph.D. Governance
The research activities and doctoral programs are governed by the Research and Development Cell (RDC) of the university. This body ensures that research pursuits meet national quality standards and adhere to ethical practices. The Ph.D. ordinance of the university, revised in accordance with the UGC regulations, lays out the framework for admissions, coursework, supervision, progress monitoring, and final submission.
All research scholars are required to undergo a mandatory coursework of one semester that includes subjects like Research Methodology, Computer Applications, and Research Ethics. This coursework ensures foundational knowledge and prepares scholars for independent study.
Ph.D. Admission Process
Admission to Ph.D. programs is competitive and follows a well-defined process, which includes:
- Notification of available seats by departments
- Online application submission by interested candidates
- University-level Entrance Examination (Research Eligibility Test – RET)
- Personal Interview and Research Proposal Presentation
- Final merit list based on combined scores of written exam and interview
Applicants with valid UGC-NET, CSIR-NET, or GATE scores are exempted from the entrance test and can directly appear for the interview round.
Eligibility Criteria for Ph.D. Programs
The minimum eligibility criteria are as follows:
- A Master’s degree in the relevant or allied discipline
- Minimum 55% marks in postgraduation (50% for SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates)
- M.Phil. holders and NET/GATE-qualified candidates are eligible for direct interviews
The following table summarizes the eligibility criteria:
| Program Area | Minimum Qualification Required | Additional Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Sciences | M.Sc. in relevant field | RET or UGC-NET/GATE |
| Humanities & Languages | M.A. in relevant language/subject | RET or NET |
| Law | LL.M. with minimum 55% marks | RET or equivalent exam |
| Computer Science | M.Sc. (CS) / MCA | RET or GATE |
| Environmental Science | M.Sc. (Env. Sci.) or equivalent | RET or NET |
Research Areas and Departments Offering Ph.D.
Research is encouraged in both traditional and emerging fields. Departments currently offering Ph.D. programs include:
- Environmental Science
- Legal Studies
- Functional Hindi
- Biotechnology
- Computer Science
- Farm-Forestry
Each department maintains a list of approved supervisors, available research areas, and intake capacity. The university also ensures that supervisors do not exceed the maximum number of scholars allotted as per UGC norms.
Ongoing Research Projects and Collaborations
The university actively seeks funding and collaboration for research from various national and state-level agencies. Some notable associations include:
- University Grants Commission (UGC)
- Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR)
- Department of Science and Technology (DST)
- Chhattisgarh Council of Science and Technology
Recent research areas have included:
- Biodiversity conservation in tribal regions
- Medicinal plant analysis and ethnobotany
- Legal empowerment of marginalized communities
- Artificial intelligence in rural governance systems
- Agroforestry and sustainable farming practices
Facilities and Support for Researchers
To support its research scholars, the university offers access to:
- A central library with digital databases (e-journals, e-books)
- Research laboratories with modern equipment
- Plagiarism detection tools like Urkund or Turnitin
- Seminars, workshops, and academic conferences
- Research fellowships for qualified scholars (subject to fund availability)
A research scholar is expected to publish at least two quality research papers in peer-reviewed journals before submitting the final thesis.
Doctoral Thesis Evaluation and Viva Voce
Once the thesis is submitted, it is sent to two external examiners (as per UGC guidelines) for evaluation. After receiving satisfactory reviews, the scholar appears for a public viva voce where the research findings are defended. The final Ph.D. degree is awarded after approval from the Academic Council.
Ethical Guidelines and Anti-Plagiarism Measures
Ethical integrity is central to the university’s research programs. Scholars must submit a plagiarism-free certificate at the time of thesis submission. The maximum permissible similarity index is 10% as per UGC regulations.
Any academic misconduct, falsification of data, or unethical practices can lead to disqualification and blacklisting of the scholar or supervisor.
Contribution to Regional Development
Research carried out at the university is closely aligned with the socio-economic and environmental challenges of Chhattisgarh. Projects often involve community participation and aim to improve agricultural practices, environmental awareness, and tribal education. This regional focus has enabled the university to act as a bridge between academic research and practical development.
Sant Gahira Guru Vishwavidyalaya has taken commendable steps to strengthen its research culture. By creating a structured and ethical Ph.D. framework, promoting interdisciplinary research, and encouraging faculty-student collaboration, the university is contributing meaningfully to academic and regional growth. As it continues to invest in innovation and scholarly rigor, it sets an example for other emerging universities in India.