UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Statements A, B and C together provide a nuanced view of ranking frameworks. Statement A is true because published rankings often influence perceptions among students, parents and employers. Statement B is true as excessive focus on ranking positions can push institutions to chase indicators rather than overall educational quality and mission. Statement C is also true since thoughtful institutions can use ranking data as one input for benchmarking and planning improvements. Statement D is false because rankings use particular methodologies, and not all high-quality institutions will always appear at the top. Therefore, A, B and C only form the correct combination.

Option A:
Option A is incomplete because it includes only A and B and omits C, ignoring the constructive use of ranking data for self-improvement and strategic planning.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect because it selects A and C but leaves out B, thereby failing to mention the potential distortion of priorities when rankings are overemphasised.

Option C:
Option C is correct because it integrates A, B and C, acknowledging both the influence and risks of rankings and their potential diagnostic value, while excluding D, which oversimplifies the relationship between quality and ranking positions.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because it includes D, which wrongly assumes that all high-quality institutions must top every ranking, an assumption that does not hold given diverse ranking criteria.