Mumbai, July 3, 2024 — The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), a prestigious institution established in 1936 by Tata Trusts, will no longer receive financial backing from the Trusts. This decision follows changes in TISS’s organizational structure, bringing it under the purview of the Union Education Ministry with limited Tata Trusts representation.
Withdrawal of Tata Trusts’ Support
Tata Trusts has decided to focus on social projects where it has direct involvement and representation. TISS, now primarily funded by the Union Education Ministry, has only one Tata Trusts representative in its society and none in its executive council. This shift complies with UGC regulations requiring universities receiving more than 50% of their funding from the central government to restructure their governance.
The impact of this change became evident when the contracts of 115 staff members—55 teaching and 60 non-teaching—directly funded by Tata Trusts, came to an end. TISS initially issued termination notices due to the lack of funding but later withdrew them following negotiations.
Temporary Relief for Staff
In a meeting between TISS administration and Tata Education Trust (TET) on Sunday, Tata Trusts agreed to release a balance grant of Rs 5 crore upon receiving a charity certificate from TISS. Despite not yet receiving the certificate, Tata Trusts committed to the payment, averting immediate termination of the staff. TISS has since retracted the termination notices, allowing affected staff to resume their duties.
Concerns and Future Uncertainty
The situation has created uncertainty among the affected staff, who are essential to the institute’s operations. Affected teachers expressed concerns over their job security and called for a long-term solution. “This may repeat again in six months. We are seeking a long-term solution to the problem,” said one teacher. They emphasized their integral role in the institute, noting that they undergo a rigorous recruitment process, are provided with appointment letters, and contribute significantly to TISS’s data for NAAC and NIRF rankings.
Teachers highlighted their involvement in redesigning programs in line with the National Education Policy 2020 and their participation in the admission process. They argued for their absorption into UGC-funded positions, pointing out that many such positions are currently vacant.
Administrative Efforts and Plans
TISS officials have been in continuous discussions with Tata Trusts to secure the necessary funds. “They have agreed to make the resources available to resolve the issue. Accordingly, notices issued have been withdrawn, and teachers have been asked to resume. The salaries will be given as soon as the trust releases the fund,” said a TISS official. The administration is also exploring sustainable plans for the project and affected staff, considering government and UGC regulations and the institute’s needs.
Next Steps
Affected teachers plan to meet the vice-chancellor on Monday to discuss long-term solutions. They also intend to write to the Union Education Minister, Chancellor D P Singh, and Tata Trusts to seek a permanent resolution to their funding and employment concerns.
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