Honorary Doctorate Degree – Application & Award Process

PROPOSAL FOR HONORARY DOCTORATE DEGREE PROGRAM

1. Introduction

This proposal outlines the Honorary Doctorate Degree conferment process, eligibility criteria, application procedure, fees, benefits, welcome kit, and certification framework. The objective is to recognize distinguished individuals for their exceptional contributions to society, education, industry, arts, science, public service, entrepreneurship, and nation-building.

Honorary Doctorate degrees are recognition awards (honoris causa) and are not equivalent to academic or research degrees earned through formal study.

2. Objectives of the Honorary Doctorate Program

  • To honor individuals with outstanding lifetime achievements
  • To promote leadership, ethics, innovation, and social responsibility
  • To inspire students and the wider community
  • To strengthen institutional credibility and public engagement

3. Categories of Honorary Doctorate

Honorary Doctorates may be conferred in the following fields:

  • Education & Skill Development
  • Social Work & Public Service
  • Business & Entrepreneurship
  • Banking & Finance
  • Science & Technology
  • Arts, Culture & Literature
  • Healthcare & Wellness
  • Law, Governance & Policy
  • Media, Journalism & Communication

Degree title example:

  • Doctor of Letters (D.Litt.) – Honoris Causa
  • Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) – Honoris Causa
  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) – Honoris Causa

4. Eligibility Criteria (Application Criteria)

Applicants / nominees must:

  • Be minimum 30 years of age
  • Possess minimum 10–15 years of significant professional or social contribution
  • Demonstrate national or regional impact in their field
  • Have a record of ethical conduct and public respect
  • Not seek the degree for academic, employment, or professional registration use

Both self-application and nomination by a third party are permitted.

5. Application Process

Step 1: Application Submission

Applicants must submit:

  • Completed Honorary Doctorate Application Form
  • Detailed Profile / Resume (Biodata)
  • Statement of Contribution (1000–1500 words)
  • Supporting documents (awards, recognitions, media coverage, certificates)
  • Two recommendation letters (optional but preferred)
  • Copy of valid government ID

Step 2: Screening & Due Diligence

  • Preliminary scrutiny by Academic & Ethics Committee
  • Background verification and contribution assessment
  • Field expert review (if required)

Step 3: Approval & Selection

  • Final recommendation by Honorary Degree Committee
  • Approval by Governing Council / Board

Step 4: Intimation & Acceptance

  • Provisional Offer Letter issued
  • Acceptance confirmation by applicant

Step 5: Convocation & Conferment

  • Degree conferred at Formal Convocation / Award Ceremony
  • Presence of dignitaries, chief guest, and academic council

6. Application Fee Structure

Fee Type Amount (INR)
Application & Processing Fee (Non-refundable) ₹7,500
Evaluation & Documentation Fee ₹25,000
Convocation & Certification Fee ₹50,000 – ₹1,00000

Fee may vary depending on category, ceremony mode (physical/virtual), and documentation requirements.

7. Honorary Doctorate Benefits

Recipients are entitled to:

  • Prestigious Honorary Doctorate Degree Certificate
  • Official Convocation Robe & Medallion (as applicable)
  • Lifetime recognition by the awarding institution
  • Name listed on official website & annual records
  • Invitation to academic, social, and national events
  • Use of title “Dr.” (Honorary)” or “Dr. (H.C.)” strictly for social recognition

Note: The title must not be used for academic teaching claims, professional licensing, or statutory benefits.

8. Welcome Kit Contents

Each awardee will receive a Welcome & Recognition Kit consisting of:

  • Honorary Doctorate Degree Certificate
  • Citation Letter highlighting achievements
  • Convocation Medal / Memento
  • Institutional Brochure & Charter
  • ID Card / Membership Certificate (Honorary)
  • Official Photograph & Media Coverage (where applicable)

9. Certification & Regulatory Clarification

  • The Honorary Doctorate is a symbolic recognition, not an academic qualification.
  • UGC and Ministry of Education (MoE), Government of India, do not approve or regulate honorary degrees as academic awards.
  • Certificates will be issued by the awarding institution as an autonomous recognition body, in compliance with applicable laws.
  • No claim of UGC-approved degree equivalence shall be made.

A clear disclaimer will be printed on:

  • Certificate
  • Website
  • Prospectus
  • Offer Letter

10. Ethical Guidelines & Disclaimer

  • Honorary degrees shall not be sold or guaranteed
  • Selection is merit-based and committee-driven
  • False claims or misuse of title may result in revocation
  • The institution reserves full rights to amend policies

11. Conclusion

The Honorary Doctorate Degree Program is a prestigious recognition platform designed to honor excellence, integrity, and service to society. With a transparent process, ethical framework, and ceremonial dignity, the program upholds academic values while celebrating real-world impact.

Issued by:
Honorary Degree Committee
INSTITUTE FOR SKILL DEVELOPMENT
Ghogarkuthi P.O – Uttar Ghogarkuthi Coochbehar West Bengal 736159
[www.isd.org.in | hc@isd.org.in | 9993334086]