Chandigarh, March 11
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Finance Minister Harpal Cheema today assured the Punjab Vidhan Sabha that there would be no dearth of funds for any university in the state.
This year, we have set aside Rs 164 crore for the university. But after talking to the Vice-Chancellor of the university and other functionaries, we propose to enhance the grant to an amount that will cover its expenses. Harpal Cheema, Finance Minister
While reiterating the government’s commitment to improving the education infrastructure and promoting centres of higher education, Cheema said even last year, the Budget had initially set aside Rs 150 crore for Punjabi University, which was then enhanced to Rs 200 crore.
“This year, we have set aside Rs 164 crore for the university. But after talking to the Vice-Chancellor of the university and other functionaries, we propose to enhance the grant to an amount that will cover its expenses,” said Cheema.
CM Bhagwant Mann, while referring to the funds for universities in the state, said his government would not allow any university to suffer any financial loss and that education should not be under any debt. No stone will be left unturned for the betterment of the universities, he said and also mentioned about his long association with Punjabi University.
Yesterday, university VC Prof Arvind had lashed out at the government and questioned its seriousness towards saving and running the cash-strapped institution. He said the state government had slashed its allocation from Rs 200 crore to a mere Rs 164 crore. This is while the already over-staffed and financially distressed university’s yearly expenditure on salaries alone rose by Rs 100 crore due to the implementation of new pay scales for employees.
The Tribune News Service brings you the latest news, analysis and insights from the region, India and around the world. Follow the Tribune News Service for a wide-ranging coverage of events as they unfold, with perspective and clarity.
Join Whatsapp Channel of The Tribune for latest updates.
Most Read In 24 Hours
Don't Miss
View All
Top News
4 die after boat overturns in Jhelum river near Srinagar
Rescue ops under way
Israeli military vows response to Iran attack as calls for restraint mount
Top Israeli general says Israel to respond to Iran attack
Only 3% ED cases against politicians, honest have nothing to fear: PM Modi
Slams Opposition parties, says laws governing probe agencies...
Salman Khan house firing: 2 arrested from Gujarat; both residents of Bihar
A preliminary probe suggested that both Pal and Gupta were h...
Kangana calls Vikramaditya 'chotta pappu'; Congress minister describes Bollywood's queen as ‘badi behan'
It's BJP's 'stardom' vs Congress' 'royalty'
