The Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University Act, 2013

The Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University Act, 2013, is a significant piece of legislation that establishes a national aviation university to facilitate and promote studies and research in the aviation sector. The Act aims to achieve excellence in areas such as aviation management, policy, science, technology, and safety, thereby producing high-quality human resources to meet the needs of the aviation industry. This University is intended to serve as a center for innovation and learning in all aspects of aviation.

1: Act Background and Ministry

The Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University Act, 2013, was enacted to address the need for a dedicated institution to provide specialized education and research in aviation. The Act aims to promote advanced knowledge and training in aviation, contributing to the growth and development of the aviation sector in India. The Ministry of Civil Aviation oversees this Act, reflecting its responsibility in promoting aviation education and research. The Ministry plays a vital role in formulating policies, implementing the act, and ensuring the university’s effective functioning.

2: Enactment Date, Number of Chapters, and Sections:

The Act was enacted on September 18, 2013, and is officially known as Act No. 26 of 2013.

• The Act is structured without specific chapters and comprises 48 sections.

• These sections cover definitions, establishment of the University, its powers, functions, authorities, financial aspects, and other miscellaneous provisions.

• The Act also details the governance structure and operational framework of the University.

3: Act Governed By:

The Act is primarily governed by:

• The University: The Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University, established under Section 3, is the main body responsible for implementing the provisions of the Act.

• The Visitor: The President of India acts as the Visitor of the University, overseeing its functioning and ensuring compliance with the Act.

• The Chancellor: Appointed by the Visitor, the Chancellor is the head of the University.

• The Vice-Chancellor: Appointed by the Visitor, the Vice-Chancellor is the principal executive and academic officer of the University.

• The Executive Council: This is the principal executive body of the University.

• The Academic Council: This is the principal academic body of the University.

4: On Whom It Is Applicable:

The Act applies to:

• The Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University and all its campuses, centers, and affiliated institutions.

• All officers, faculty members, staff, and students of the University.

• The Visitor, Chancellor, and Vice-Chancellor of the University.

• All authorities and bodies of the University, including the Court, Executive Council, and Academic Council.

• All individuals and organizations collaborating with the University.

5: Penalties/Punishments:

The Act does not specify any penalties or punishments for non-compliance. Instead, it focuses on:

• Establishing a regulatory framework for the University’s operations.

• Providing mechanisms for resolving disputes within the University.

• The Act does not include provisions for penalties, as it is primarily designed to establish and govern the university.

• The Act empowers the Visitor to take action against the University for non-compliance with the Act, Statutes, or Ordinances.

6: Important Pointers:

• The Act establishes the Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University as a national institution for aviation studies and research.

• It defines key terms such as “academic staff,” “campus,” “Chancellor,” and “Vice-Chancellor.”

• The Act outlines the objectives of the University, including promoting excellence in aviation education and research.

• It empowers the University to provide instructions, conduct research, grant degrees, and establish various facilities.

• The Act specifies the authorities of the University, including the Court, Executive Council, and Academic Council.

• It outlines the powers and functions of the Visitor, Chancellor, and Vice-Chancellor.

• The Act provides for the establishment of a University Fund and its management.

• It includes provisions for the protection of actions taken in good faith by University officers and employees.

• The Act allows for the establishment of a Tribunal of Arbitration to resolve disputes between the University and its employees.

• It emphasizes the importance of maintaining international standards and promoting innovation in aviation education.

• The Act provides for the Central Government to issue directions to the University on policy matters.

7: Download Act Copy