India, April 5 -- In a significant administrative reform, higher and technical education minister Chandrakant Patil has made it clear that the process to appoint new vice-chancellors in state public universities will now begin six months before the incumbent's term ends.

The move, proposed through amendments to the Maharashtra Public Universities Act, 2016, aims to ensure a seamless transition in university leadership and avoid administrative disruptions.

Currently, delays in appointments often lead to additional charges being handed over to vice-chancellors of other universities, creating dual responsibilities and affecting institutional functioning.

"Starting the selection process six months in advance will help maintain stability in...