UGC Drops CARE Journal List: How Odisha's Academic Community is Reacting

UGC Discontinues CARE Journal List: Odisha Academics React to the Decision

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has officially discontinued its CARE (Consortium for Academic and Research Ethics) journal list, a move that has sparked discussions across India, including in Odisha. The decision, aimed at streamlining research publications and addressing concerns about predatory journals, has drawn mixed reactions from the academic community in the state.

Why Did UGC Discontinue the CARE Journal List?

The UGC introduced the CARE list to ensure that research publications met ethical and quality standards. However, concerns arose about the credibility of certain listed journals and the effectiveness of the selection process. To address these challenges, UGC has now shifted its focus to a more stringent approach for evaluating research publications.

Odisha’s Academic Community Weighs In

Researchers and academicians in Odisha have responded to the move with varied perspectives. Some welcome the decision, believing it will enhance research quality, while others worry about its implications for academic publishing in the state.

Positive Reactions

Many scholars see this as a step towards improving research integrity. Dr. S. Mishra, a professor at Utkal University, stated, "This will push researchers to publish in globally recognized journals rather than relying on a curated list that was sometimes questioned." Academics believe that removing the list will encourage a shift towards internationally acclaimed databases like Scopus and Web of Science.

Concerns Among Researchers

On the other hand, early-career researchers and faculty members have expressed concerns over increased difficulties in getting published. A Ph.D. scholar from Ravenshaw University shared, "The CARE list helped us identify credible Indian journals. Now, without a defined list, it might be harder to determine which journals are trustworthy." Many fear that this change may widen the gap between established researchers with international connections and those still building their academic careers.

What’s Next for Researchers?

With the CARE list gone, UGC has emphasized publishing in peer-reviewed, high-impact journals indexed in recognized global databases. Universities and researchers in Odisha are now looking for guidance on alternative pathways to ensure their work gets published in reputable sources.

Final Thoughts

The discontinuation of the UGC CARE journal list marks a significant shift in India’s academic publishing landscape. While some in Odisha view this as a step toward higher research standards, others worry about its challenges. As the academic community navigates these changes, the focus remains on maintaining research integrity and ensuring scholars have access to quality publication opportunities.

I'd like you to please stay tuned for more updates on how this decision impacts academia in Odisha and beyond.