SPPU assure

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SPPU assures review after Kumbh Mela academic credit plan sparks row



The Academic Credit Proposal

Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) recently decided that students who volunteer at the 2026–27 Nashik Kumbh Mela — assisting with tasks like crowd management, healthcare support, traffic regulation, disaster management and other civic roles — would be eligible to receive two academic credits under social work as per National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 guidelines.
 
Criticism Over Mixing Religion and Education

The move sparked sharp criticism from various student organisations and social groups, who argued that linking academic credits to participation in a religious event crosses a line between education and religion. Critics said academic recognition should emphasize core learning, skills, research, and inclusive social service, not involvement in a faith-based event.
 
Concerns About Administrative Motives

Some detractors, including the Maharashtra State Youth Congress, maintained that the scheme risks using student service to fill administrative manpower gaps during the mega event while dressing it up as academic achievement, which they called inappropriate and against secular and rational academic values.
 
Protests and Student Response

Several student bodies, including the Republican Sena and the University Student Struggle Action Committee, organised protests at the SPPU campus and submitted a memorandum to university officials. They asked questions like whether similar credits would be offered for other religious or secular events, reflecting concerns over fairness and precedent.
 
SPPU’s Assurance to Review

In response to the backlash, SPPU authorities issued a written assurance to the protesting groups stating the decision will be reviewed and necessary modifications made. University officials defended the initiative as an experience contributing to students’ holistic development and administrative support during a large public event, even as debate continues.

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