Uttarakhand Governor Dr KK Paul in his capacity as Chancellor of GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar has appointed Dr Mangla Rai as the Vice-Chancellor of the University. Dr Mangla Rai (67), is a world famous agricultural scientist and has been holding the post of Secretary to the Government of India, Department of Agriculture Research and Education ( DARE) and DG, ICAR for a period of about 6 years. His appointment as VC, will be valid for a period of 3 years or upto the age of 70 years, whichever is earlier.
Dr Mangla Rai’s name figured in the Panel of three names sent by the Search Committee to the Governor on March 1, 2015 where after, the panelists were called for a meeting at Raj Bhawan. One of the three panelists expressed his unwillingness, on phone. For the remaining two, the personal meetings were held at Raj Bhawan on 10th and 12th March. In these meetings, Secretary to the Governor was also present.
On 11th March, a meeting was held by the Governor with the Principal Secretary, Agriculture, where also the Secretary to the Governor was present. Certain clarifications were sought after this meeting on March 11, 2015, a reply to which has been received on March 17 i.e. today. Where after, a decision has been taken to appoint Mangla Rai.
It would not be out of place to mention that the earlier Panel was returned on April, 22, 2014, on account of certain preliminary objections. The present Governor assumed office on January, 8, 2015 and the matter for appointment of the Vice Chancellor was taken up with the Chief Secretary on January 14, 2015. The decision to appoint Dr. Mangla Rai followed the submissions of the Search Committee report on March, 1, 2015.
The Governor has taken into consideration the report of the Search Committee where they have stated that no upper age limit is prescribed for the post of VC of GB Pant University of Agriculture and Technology as per the Statute. The report also cites cases of other Agricultural Universities, where the age of VC is prescribed to be up to 70 years. Model Act for Agriculture University also recommends upper age limit of 70 years for the post of Vice Chancellor in such Universities.