Patna: The Higher Education Department of the Ministry of Education, Government of India, has sanctioned Rs. 100 crore each to Patna University (PU) and Lalit Narayan Mithila University (LNMU) under the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA). The grant comes under the Multi-Disciplinary Education and Research University (MERU) initiative, aimed at fostering research and development in higher education institutions.
In addition, three other universities in Bihar — Bhupendra Narayan Mandal University (Madhepura), Jai Prakash University (Chapra), and Nalanda Open University — have been allocated Rs. 20 crore each under the scheme.
Funds to Be Released in Installments
The sanctioned amount will be disbursed to the universities in installments, enabling them to strengthen research capabilities and infrastructure. PU had earned eligibility for the PM-USHA grant after securing a place in the 51-100 rank range in the State University category of the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) in August 2024. Following this, the university completed the required application process in September.
PU’s Dean of Students’ Welfare and Media In-charge, Prof Anil Kumar, confirmed the issuance of the notification by the Government of India. “This grant is a significant milestone in PU’s journey to improve its infrastructure, research output, and overall academic excellence. It is a step closer to realizing our dream of becoming a central university,” said Prof Kumar.
The Bihar government also played a crucial role in forwarding PU’s proposal to the Higher Education Department of the Government of India. Universities from other states, including Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, and Nagaland, were also participants in the PM-USHA grant application process.
Vice Chancellor’s Vision
PU Vice Chancellor Prof Ajay Kumar Singh expressed optimism about the grant’s impact. “The Rs. 100 crore allocation will accelerate our efforts to enhance PU’s infrastructure, research capabilities, and educational standards. It will also contribute to improving PU’s future rankings in NAAC and NIRF assessments,” he said.
BN College Secures Rs. 5 Crore
In addition to the university grants, BN College of Patna University has been allocated Rs. 5 crore under PM-USHA. The college plans to utilize the funds for enhancing its digital infrastructure, electronics lab, computer facilities for teachers, and the development of teachers’ chambers. “This grant will significantly uplift the college’s facilities and teaching standards,” said college principal Prof Rajkishore Prasad.
Benefits of PM-USHA
The PM-USHA scheme, aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP), provides grants based on the specific needs and plans of educational institutions. Key components include:
- Scholarships: Awarded to students based on academic performance and financial need.
- Infrastructure Development: Support for upgrading university facilities.
- Faculty Development: Initiatives to improve teaching quality and resources.
The allocation under PM-USHA includes Rs. 100 crore for each of the 35 MERUs, Rs. 20 crore for 73 universities, Rs. 5 crore for 401 colleges, and targeted funds for new model degree colleges and gender equity initiatives in 50 districts.
Strengthening Higher Education in Bihar
The Rs. 100 crore grants for PU and LNMU mark a transformative moment for higher education in Bihar, underscoring the government’s commitment to fostering academic excellence and research innovation. With these funds, both universities are poised to play a pivotal role in advancing India’s knowledge economy.
