#### A Vision for Students First: The Work Ethic and Approach of Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. B.P. Saraswat at MLSU
When the State Government and the Chancellor of Rajasthan appointed Prof. B.P. Saraswat as the Acting Vice Chancellor of Mohanlal Sukhadia University, Udaipur, very few expected that within just three working days he would initiate the pace of change that the campus had not witnessed for months. Known for his firm administrative style, long academic experience, and grassroots social connect, Prof. Saraswat stepped into the role with a clarity of purpose—the student stands at the centre of the university ecosystem.
For a man who has worked 22 years in universities and 17 years in colleges, who has held charge of more than four universities simultaneously, and who carries with him both a strong ideological background and credible administrative record, the transition into Sukhadia University felt less like a temporary assignment and more like a responsibility he must honor with full sincerity.
A Leader Shaped by Experience and Ideals
Prof. Saraswat’s background spans academia, public engagement, and organisational work. His roots are in Ajmer, where he completed his education and early professional journey. Over the years he built a reputation not only as a seasoned academician—particularly in Commerce—but also as an administrator who understands the pulse of the common people. His six-year stint as a district-level organisational leader exposed him deeply to grassroots concerns.
His association with the ideological framework of the Sangh, he believes, strengthened his emotional connection with ordinary citizens—their struggles, their aspirations, their cultural identity, and their educational needs. “Being connected to an ideology means being connected to the people,” he says, emphasising that public service and academic leadership must go hand in hand.
Honoring the Soil of Maharana Pratap
Udaipur, for him, is not just a workstation. It is a land of inspiration. He recalls hearing stories and songs of Maharana Pratap since childhood—the valour, the sacrifice, the unshakeable sense of justice, the courage to stand alone for truth. Working on that sacred land evokes in him a profound sense of pride.
He admits that he never imagined he would get the opportunity to serve as Vice Chancellor in Udaipur. “This is the land where bravery has a cultural foundation,” he explains. To work here, therefore, is a privilege—and a responsibility—to honor the legacy through integrity and impactful administration.
No Acting VC—A VC in Full Authority
Despite being appointed as an Acting Vice Chancellor for interim arrangements, he rejects the idea of working in a limited or symbolic capacity. “A Vice Chancellor is a Vice Chancellor,” he says decisively. Time may be short or long, but the responsibility remains the same—to work, to implement, to solve, and to lead.
Within just three days, his approach has already signaled a shift:
• Students do not need appointments to meet him.
• His office has removed the fixed meeting hours plate.
• Students may meet him anytime during office hours—and even at his residence if required.
• Every appeal is treated as important, every student as central to the institution’s existence.
“Students Are the Gods of the University”
With a background in Commerce, Prof. Saraswat draws a parallel:
“As a businessman treats the customer as a deity, a university must treat students as its gods.”
He firmly believes that the university, its departments, its staff, and its authority structures exist solely because students exist. Without them, the institution collapses into irrelevance.
He also acknowledges that youth, by nature, are emotional and expressive. They raise demands, protest, sometimes raise slogans—even against the Vice Chancellor. But he sees this not as rebellion, but as immaturity that must be met with patience. “We cannot destroy the future of our youth,” he asserts. “We must counsel them, resolve what is possible, and explain what cannot be done.”
A Philosophy Rooted in Respect for Professors
One of his strongest beliefs concerns the dignity of the academic profession. According to him, a professor’s position is the highest academic honour that can be achieved through one’s past deeds, parental blessings, and deep sincerity. Administrative designations—like Vice Chancellor—are temporary privileges granted by governments, but professorship is a sacred identity.
He is deeply critical of faculty members who run after small administrative posts by pleasing Vice Chancellors instead of offering them honest counsel.
He compares professors to the Rajguru of ancient times—whose advice even kings respected. “Professors should guide Vice Chancellors, not flatter them,” he says.
The Digital Revolution for Students: A New Portal
One of the most impactful initiatives under his leadership is the imminent launch of a comprehensive digital student portal—possibly the first of its kind in Rajasthan. The portal will allow students to:
• View their academic records
• Access marksheets and certificates
• Download migration certificates
• Check examination schedules
• View timetables
• Apply for services online
• Track applications
• Receive results digitally
For thousands of tribal and economically weaker students in the region, this digital convenience is transformative. Many travel long distances, spend money on transport and food, and often suffer entire-day delays for a single certificate. The portal will eliminate this hardship entirely.
Prof. Saraswat emphasises that technology should reduce suffering, especially for students from tribal belts whose families struggle financially. “If online facilities exist, why should students waste a whole day and hard-earned money for one certificate?” he asks.
A Major Proposal for the Upcoming Vidya Parishad Meeting
He plans to propose a groundbreaking step:
• When students graduate, the university will issue their marksheet, migration certificate, and provisional degree simultaneously.
• Fees for these services will be rationalised and reduced.
• The need for students to visit the university in person will be eliminated.
He intends to implement the same model in Kota University as well.
Semester Delays Under the New Education Policy
He acknowledges the frustration among students due to delayed semesters and extended graduation timelines. The introduction of the NEP-based “SE” scheme, including two exams per year and overlapping result cycles, has caused statewide and nationwide delays.
He assures students that within one year, the system will stabilise and return to a predictable academic calendar.
Clarification on Direct PhD Without PG
Rumours suggested that under the new policy, students could pursue PhD directly after graduation. He clarifies firmly:
• No such proposal has been received
• No such policy has been communicated by the government
• Research quality must be preserved through proper eligibility criteria
Addressing Staff and Contractual Employee Concerns
He is aware of issues faced by self-financed scheme staff and contractual employees, though he is still gathering details. He has written to the State Government requesting continuation of existing processes until a formal decision is taken.
The Critical Issue: University Land and Pension Liabilities
One of the most pressing challenges faced by Sukhadia University relates to land allocation, encroachments, and ongoing disputes impacting pension funds.
A road constructed near a property belonging to a person named Kapoor, and subsequent changes in land categorisation, have reportedly begun affecting the university’s pension resources.
Prof. Saraswat has taken immediate steps:
• He has written to UDA (formerly UIT).
• He will meet UDA officials with the university’s concerned officers.
• He has already discussed the issue with Punjab Governor and senior leader Gulab Chand Kataria, who advised coordination and resolution.
• He recognises that MLSU currently has around 750 pensioners, and the numbers will grow.
Across Rajasthan, pension crises are emerging—Jodhpur University already faces severe issues, and Jaipur’s state university may face challenges soon. Sukhadia University may remain stable for a year or two, but long-term solutions are urgently needed.
The Acting Vice Chancellor is determined to push for financial and structural reforms that protect the rights of pensioners while safeguarding the university’s assets.
Administrative Shake-up: Six Appointments and Five Removals in 20 Days
Since 14 October, Prof. Saraswat has initiated major restructuring:
• Several senior positions—Controller of Examination, OSD to VC, Chief Proctor—have been changed.
• Staff closely aligned with the previous VC’s administration have been relieved.
• Six new appointments have been made.
• Multiple committees are being reorganised to ensure transparency.
The changes signal a shift not only in power but in governance philosophy.
A Leader Focused on Solutions, Not Tenure
Prof. Saraswat refuses to function like a temporary caretaker. Even if he remains for eight months or less—or longer—his approach will remain the same:
• Work like a full Vice Chancellor
• Solve structural problems
• Protect university resources
• Reform administrative systems
• Empower students and faculty
• Build long-term academic infrastructure
A New Chapter for MLSU
In only three working days, the Acting Vice Chancellor has made his intentions clear. His student-centric philosophy, emphasis on technology, respect for professors, clarity on ethics, and proactive approach to land and pension issues present a leadership style that is both grounded and determined.
His message is simple yet powerful:
The future of the university lies in the hands of its students, and the duty of every administrator is to protect, guide, and empower that future.
साभार :
© CopyRight Pressnote.in | A Avid Web Solutions Venture.