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Vedic astrology is not only one of the main subjects of our traditional and classical knowledge but this is the discipline which lets us know the events happening in human life and in universe on time scale.
The distinguishing feature of this subject is that it makes us familiar with time, its nature and feature and its effects on human life and other events and that way it helps us to manage and make optimal utilisation of time.
It is a common feature that despite best methods adapted for estimation, the events happen in different way and add to worries, tensions and frustration in life. Here Vedic astrology can help to see the unforeseen, it being the subject dealing with time.
Starting of the courses in Vedic astrology in Universities will not only impart the knowledge of this subject to the people but will also add a new dimension for research in the fields of Hindu-mathematics, Vastushastra, Meteorological studies, agriculture science, space science, etc.
2. The contention of the petitioners is that the said guidelines are totally irrational as Vedic astrology cannot be held to see the unforeseen. Various scientists and writers like the petitioners herein are of the opinion that having regard to the provisions contained in Article 51-A of the Constitution, astrology cannot be said to be a subject which should be taught in the University. The Act was enacted to make provisions for the coordination and determination of standards in institutions for higher education or research and scientific and technical institutions and for that purpose to establish a University Grants Commission (for short 'UGC'). UGC has been constituted in terms of Section 4 of the said Act. Chapter III of the said Act deals with powers and functions of the Commission. Section 12 speaks of the general duty of the Commission to take, in consultation with the University or other bodies concerned all such steps as it may think for promotion and co-ordination of University education and for the determination and maintenance of standards of teaching, examination and research in Universities, and for the purpose of performing its functions under the Act. Inter alia the functions specified therein are to perform such other functions as may be prescribed or as may be deemed necessary by the UGC for advancing the cause of higher education in India or as may be incidental or conducive to the discharge of the above functions.
6. Article 51-A of the Constitution whereupon reference has been made by the petitioners inter alia provides for duties to develop the scientific temper, humanism and the spirit of inquiry and reform. Astrology in some quarters considered to be a science and is stated to be equivalent to astronomy. However, the scientists of the western countries considered the same to be a pseudo science.
7. Webster's dictionary defines 'astrology' to mean:
the science or doctrine of stars, and formerly often used as equivalent to astronomy, but now restricted in meaning to the pseudo science which claims to foretell the future by studying the supposed influence of the relative positions of the moon, sun, and stars on human affairs.
8. Encyclopedia Britannica (2nd edition) defines astrology to mean:
Defined as either a science or a pseudo science, astrology - the forecasting of earthly and human events by means of observing and interpreting the fixed stars, the sun, the moon, and the planets - has exerted a sometimes extensive and a sometimes peripheral influence in many civilizations, both ancient and modern. As a science, astrology has been utilized to predict or affect the destinies of individuals, groups, or nations by means of what is believed to be a correct understanding of the influence of the planets and stars on earthly affairs. As a Pseudo science, astrology is considered to be diametrically opposed to the findings and theories of modern western science.