UGC NET Questions (Paper – 1)

Statements A, B, C and D together give a balanced view of rankings. A is true because rankings can shape reputation and attract students. B is true as standardised metrics may not capture local goals. C is true since institutions should study indicators before aligning strategies. D is true because overemphasis on rank positions can distort focus from core academic and social missions. E and F are false because rankings are not the sole accountability tool and quality-oriented institutions may participate while still critiquing limitations.

Option A:
Option A is incorrect because it omits D and therefore fails to highlight the risk of distorted priorities when rankings dominate decision-making.

Option B:
Option B is incorrect because it includes E, which wrongly presents rankings as the primary mandated accountability mechanism, and omits D, so it does not warn about potential distortions.

Option C:
Option C is correct as it selects A, B, C and D, the four true statements covering branding, methodological limits, strategic reflection and priority balance, while excluding E and F, which overstate or reject rankings.

Option D:
Option D is incorrect because it includes F, which claims quality institutions must avoid rankings altogether, and omits A, thus ignoring the branding dimension.