Govt engages over 1,800 professors of practice across 349 HEIs under NEP reforms

The Union government has informed Parliament that 1,841 Professors of Practice are currently serving across 349 higher education institutions under reforms aligned with the National Education Policy 2020.

Replying to a written question in the Rajya Sabha, Union Minister of State for Education Sukanta Majumdar said the appointments are aimed at strengthening skill-oriented education and enhancing industry-academia collaboration.

"A total of 1,841 PoP have been engaged across 349 higher education institutions (HEIs) as of January 5, 2026, as part of reforms under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which stresses skill-based learning and stronger industry-academia collaboration," the minister said.

He outlined the nature of the position, saying, "The post of Professor of Practice is a temporary post, exclusive of sanctioned posts. It also provides an opportunity for those in leadership positions in different fields to come on an honorary basis as Professor of Practice so as to give back to the society and contribute towards nation building," he added.

Data shared in the House shows private universities account for 715 appointments, followed by deemed universities with 699. State universities have engaged 212, central universities 15, and colleges 200.

Among states, Tamil Nadu leads with 395 Professors of Practice. Maharashtra has 193, Gujarat 179, Karnataka 170, and Uttar Pradesh 157. Other states and union territories have reported lower numbers.

On tenure, the minister said, "The maximum duration of service of a professor of practice at a given institution should not exceed three years and is extendable by one year in exceptional cases, and the total service should not exceed four years under any circumstances," the minister said.