The HRD Ministry has asked the Central Universities and appealed to other universities to institute a chair for post-doctoral studies in the name of Swami Vivekananda.
HRD Minister Smriti Irani on Thursday said that to commemorate the historic speech of Vivekananda at Chicago, the universities have been indicated to start a research programme in his name.
“Since today (Thursday) is September 11, the day when Swami Vivekananda gave that historic speech in Chicago, I take this opportunity to appeal to all vice chancellors across all Central, State and deemed universities that the University Grants Commission (UGC) has proposed a plan whereby chairs can be set up in the name of Swami Vivekananda so that his philosophy, teachings and life can be researched upon and studied. I appeal to all these institutions to avail of this particular grant by the UGC,” Irani told mediapersons while enlisting the 100 days’ achievements of her Ministry. Swami Vivekananda’s speech at the World’s Parliament of Religions on this day in 1893 made him famous as a “Messenger of Indian wisdom to the Western world”.
Emphasising on a new education policy for the country, Irani said deliberations will begin from next year on the issue and a “review” will be carried out for efficient implementation of the Right to Education and Sarva Siksha Abhiyan programme.Irani though rejected allegations that her Ministry was trying to push books written by Hindutva ideologues, saying it will abide by “constitutional modalities” before taking any step.
She also said that a recently submitted report, which examined the no-detention policy in classes, will be taken up for deliberation at the next meeting of the Central Advisory Board of Education.To a question on whether her Ministry would be introducing books written by RSS ideologue Dinanath Batra and which are taught in classes in Gujarat, she said these were mere reports coming in sections of media.
Batra is reported to have sent proposals to Irani demanding revamp of school curriculum inculcating ‘values and nationalism’ in students. Some of his books have also been translated into Gujarati to be part of the State’s school curriculum.
laying stress on girls education, Irani said her Government was committed to provide friendly environment in schools for them and said steps are being taken to realise Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of having girls toilets in schools by July next year.
Irani also expressed concern over incidents of ragging and said messages have been sent to all schools to take strong actions against those found involved. A special scholarship Scheme for students of North East Region named Ishan Uday has also been launched.