The Maharashtra higher and technical education department has initiated a significant policy review by forming a high-level committee to explore the feasibility of converting non-government aided colleges into private universities. Chaired by Bhushan Patwardhan, a former vice-chairman of the University Grants Commission, the committee will evaluate various aspects, including academic, administrative, financial, and legal considerations. It will specifically review the Maharashtra Private Universities (Establishment and Regulation) Act, 2023, and the related rules notified in 2024. The committee is tasked with defining eligibility criteria, which will encompass minimum academic standards, infrastructure requirements, and research output necessary for a college's conversion. Financial implications, including government salary grants and employee benefits, will also be analyzed. The panel is expected to ensure that the proposal aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. The committee has been given a deadline of two months to submit its findings to the state government.