Light but tight regulation phrase – UGC NET Question

NEP 2020 uses the phrase “light but tight” to convey that while regulations should be few and non-intrusive (“light”), they must be strictly enforced where they exist (“tight”). The missing word in the stem must therefore be “light,” which captures the idea of reduced bureaucratic burden combined with strong enforcement on core quality norms.

Option A:
Option A is incorrect because “heavy” regulation implies dense, detailed control and frequent interference in institutional functioning, which is exactly what NEP 2020 wants to avoid.

Option B:
Option B is correct as “light” reflects simplified, limited regulation that still insists on compliance with key standards, matching the policy’s own wording.

Option C:
Option C is wrong since “rigid” emphasises inflexibility and excessive control, not the balanced approach of fewer but well-enforced rules.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because “weak” regulation would suggest poor enforcement and diluted standards, contradicting the “tight” part of the phrase.