Patna University, LNMU receive Rs 100 Cr each for multidisciplinary development under PM-USHA scheme

Patna University (PU) and L N Mithila University (LNMU) have been allocated Rs 100 crore each under the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) for their transformation into multiple-disciplinary education and research universities (MERUs). This decision was made at the third meeting of the PM-USHA project approval board. The grant will support infrastructure development, creation of advanced research facilities, and enhancement of academic programs to promote multidisciplinary education.

In addition to PU and LNMU, three other state universities in Bihar have been sanctioned Rs 20 crore each for infrastructural development. These include B N Mandal University-Madhepura, Nalanda Open University-Patna, and Jaya Prakash University-Chhapra. The funds will be used to upgrade classrooms, libraries, laboratories, and faculty development programs, enhancing the overall academic environment and increasing research capabilities at these institutions.

Furthermore, 15 colleges across Bihar have been granted Rs 5 crore each to improve their infrastructure and academic facilities. These colleges include B N College-Patna, Araria College-Araria, PBS College-Banka, Gopeshwar College-Hathwa, DSM College-Jhahja, Koshi College-Khagaria, B N M College-Barhaiya, H S College-Udakishanganj, Government Degree College-West Champaran, MSS College-Areraj, MHM College-Saharsa, SKR College-Barbigha, Government Degree College-Shekhar, SLK College-Sitamarhi, and DAV PG College-Siwan. The allocation is aimed at strengthening the educational framework at the grassroots level, focusing on improving academic and physical infrastructure.

The Bihar State Higher Education Council (BSHEC) has confirmed that the Union government will release 60% of the funds, with the remaining 40% to be shared by the state government. Institutions have been instructed to utilize the funds within a couple of years to ensure that the planned projects are completed efficiently and contribute to enhancing the quality of higher education in the state.