Ashok Vardhan Shetty, a former vice-chancellor of Tamil Nadu Fisheries University, has emphasized the need for a university finance panel to rationalize funding for universities in Tamil Nadu. Shetty stressed the importance of a structured mechanism to allocate funds and resources efficiently to ensure the overall development of higher education institutions in the state. He highlighted the challenges faced by universities in terms of financial management and suggested that a finance panel could help in streamlining the allocation of funds based on the specific needs and priorities of each university. Shetty also pointed out the significance of transparency and accountability in financial matters to promote sustainable growth and quality education in Tamil Nadu. The proposal for a university finance panel comes at a crucial time when educational institutions are striving to adapt to the new normal brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. By establishing a dedicated panel for financial decision-making, universities can navigate the financial challenges more effectively and focus on enhancing academic standards and research capabilities. Shetty’s insights shed light on the importance of financial planning and management in ensuring the long-term sustainability and success of universities in Tamil Nadu.