Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, former chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC), has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Board of Governors (BoG) at the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Calcutta. The appointment has been approved by President Droupadi Murmu and will be effective for a period of four years.
According to officials from the Ministry of Education, the tenure will continue until completion of four years or until he reaches the age of 70, whichever is earlier.
IIM Calcutta Board of Governors Role and Responsibilities
The Board of Governors at IIM Calcutta serves as the apex decision-making body of the institute. It is responsible for guiding the institute’s strategic direction, policy formulation, and financial approvals. The board typically includes industry leaders, eminent academicians, and government representatives who oversee the governance and long-term development of the institute.
Academic and Administrative Career of M Jagadesh Kumar
M Jagadesh Kumar has had a long career in research, teaching, and higher education leadership. He served as the Chairman of the University Grants Commission from February 2022 to April 2025, where he led several policy initiatives aimed at transforming India’s higher education system.
Before his tenure at the UGC, Kumar served as the 12th Vice-Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) from January 2016 to 2022. Earlier in his academic career, he worked at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, where he held the NXP Chair Professorship and coordinated the VLSI Design programme.
Reforms Led by M Jagadesh Kumar at UGC
During his tenure at the UGC, Kumar oversaw several significant reforms in higher education. One of the most notable initiatives was the implementation of the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions.
The introduction of CUET aimed to standardise university admission processes across India, providing a common platform for students seeking admission to central universities.
He also supported initiatives promoting digital and flexible learning, including the expansion of SWAYAM online courses and Open and Distance Learning programmes, in line with the National Education Policy 2020.
Other key initiatives under his leadership included:
- Professor of Practice scheme to bring industry professionals into academia
- Malaviya Mission Teacher Training Programme to strengthen faculty development
- Policy measures enabling foreign universities to establish campuses in India
Recognition and Padma Shri Award
In recognition of his contribution to education and academic leadership, M Jagadesh Kumar was awarded the Padma Shri in 2026. The award acknowledged his role in driving major reforms and strengthening India’s higher education ecosystem.
With his appointment as Chairperson of the Board of Governors at IIM Calcutta, Kumar is expected to contribute further to the governance and strategic growth of one of India’s leading management institutions.