Section 2(h) in University Grants Commission (Open and Distance Learning) Regulations, 2017
(h)"Franchising" for the purpose of these regulations, means and includes the practice of allowing, formally or informally, any person or institution or organisation, other than the Higher Educational Institution recognised under these regulations for offering Open and Distance Learning programmes, to offer such programmes of study on behalf of or in the name of the recognised Higher Educational Institution, and the terms `franchise' and `franchisee' shall be construed accordingly;
