Delhi University Doubles Revenue from Student Fees Amid Shrinking UGC Grants

Delhi University has more than doubled its revenue from student fees in the past five years to over Rs 200 crore, despite underutilization of UGC grants. The university imposed fee hikes to recover interest on a HEFA loan, adversely affecting affordable education. Plans are underway to diversify revenue sources.

Delhi University has seen a dramatic increase in revenue from student fees, collecting over Rs 200 crore in the previous fiscal year. This comes as funds from UGC grants have remained largely underutilized, according to data shared by the university's finance department.

The university's internal receipts, primarily derived from student fees and other sources like consultancy fees, have doubled from nearly Rs 100 crore in 2019-2020 to over Rs 200 crore in 2023-24. Conversely, while UGC grants have increased, their share in total fund inflow has dropped from 83% in 2019-20 to 77% in 2023-24, signaling a decline in public funding as a primary source for the university.

To generate additional revenue, DU plans to rent out facilities and create departmental souvenir shops. It will also engage in collaborations with industry and alumni to create endowment funds and establish a special chair for multinational companies. These steps are outlined in the university's Institutional Development Plan, aimed at diversifying revenue sources for the future.

(With inputs from agencies.)