New Delhi, September 26
Time is not far when one-year masters degree in law (LLM) would be recognised in India. In a significant development aimed at boosting research in law, the University Grants Commission (UGC) is actively considering approval for one- year LLM degree. At present, the UGC recognises only a two-year LLM degree.

In its meeting held earlier this month, the Full Commission of the UGC deliberated on the proposal to recognise one- year LLM degree. The matter will be taken up for final discussions shortly and is expected to be approved for implementation from 2013.

The idea had first come up two years ago during a round table on legal reforms chaired by HRD Minister Kapil Sibal, who is also a Supreme Court lawyer. The ministry had backed the proposal of a one-year LLM, following which the UGC had set up an expert committee under Prof NR Madhava Menon, Founding Vice-Chancellor, National Law School of India University, Bangalore. The committee endorsed the move and recently submitted its report to the UGC.

Recognition for one-year LLM is meant to encourage research in law and prepare faculty for teaching. The Menon Committee recommended that an all-India test be held annually to select students for one-year LLM.

Speaking to The Tribune today, Prof Menon said, “The undergraduate degree in law (LLB) is good enough for those who want to practice law. For those interested in serious study of law and teaching, we have proposed a one-year LLM degree instead of two-year degree. Only India, Bangladesh and Pakistan impart two-year LLM. Everywhere else, we have one-year masters in law. That is why our law graduates are going to the West for post-graduation.”