Daily Current Affairs : 21-February-2024

The Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) scheme is a crucial initiative designed to enhance the quality of higher education in India. Recently, six universities in Uttar Pradesh have each received ₹100 crore in funding under this scheme. This significant financial support aims to transform these institutions into multi-disciplinary education and research universities (MERUs).

Goals of the Funding

The primary goals of this funding are:

  • Upgrade Laboratories: Improving existing laboratory facilities to support advanced research and practical learning.
  • Modernize Classrooms: Creating updated classroom environments equipped with the latest technology for better teaching and learning experiences.
  • Foster Innovation Hubs: Establishing centers that encourage creativity and innovative thinking among students and faculty.
  • Promote Interdisciplinary Research: Encouraging collaboration between different fields of study to drive comprehensive research efforts.

Inclusivity in Education

One of the essential aspects of the PM-USHA scheme is its focus on inclusivity. The initiative seeks to ensure that higher education becomes accessible to all, especially:

  • Women: Encouraging female participation in higher education.
  • Minorities: Supporting students from minority communities.
  • SC/ST/OBCs: Providing opportunities for students from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes.
  • Special-Abled Persons: Ensuring facilities and programs are available for differently-abled individuals.

Investment in Educational Infrastructure

This funding is part of a larger national effort to strengthen India’s educational infrastructure. By investing in universities, the government aims to elevate the nation’s knowledge landscape. The PM-USHA scheme reflects a commitment to ensuring that higher education opportunities are available to socially disadvantaged communities.

Important Points:

  • PM-USHA Scheme Overview: Initiative to enhance higher education in India.
  • Funding Amount: Six universities in Uttar Pradesh each received ₹100 crore.
  • Objective: Transform institutions into multi-disciplinary education and research universities (MERUs).

Goals of the Funding:

  • Upgrade Laboratories: Enhance existing facilities for advanced research.
  • Modernize Classrooms: Implement state-of-the-art technology for better learning.
  • Foster Innovation Hubs: Encourage creativity and innovative thinking.
  • Promote Interdisciplinary Research: Facilitate collaboration across different fields of study.

Inclusivity Focus:

  • Women: Increase female participation in higher education.
  • Minorities: Support students from minority communities.
  • SC/ST/OBCs: Provide opportunities for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Other Backward Classes.
  • Special-Abled Persons: Ensure accessibility for differently-abled individuals.

Broader Impact:

  • National Effort: Part of a larger initiative to strengthen India’s educational infrastructure.
  • Social Commitment: Aim to provide higher education opportunities to socially disadvantaged communities.

Why In News

Six universities in Uttar Pradesh have each been awarded ₹100 crore in funding under the Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) scheme, aimed at developing these institutions as multi-disciplinary education and research universities (MERUs). This substantial investment is expected to significantly enhance the quality of education and research capabilities in the region, fostering a more innovative academic environment.

MCQs about PM-USHA Scheme

  1. What is the primary purpose of the PM-USHA scheme?
    A. To increase the number of universities in India
    B. To enhance the quality of higher education
    C. To reduce tuition fees for students
    D. To promote sports in universities
    Correct Answer: B. To enhance the quality of higher education
    Explanation: The PM-USHA scheme is designed to improve the overall quality of higher education institutions in India, particularly in Uttar Pradesh.
  2. Which of the following is NOT one of the goals of the PM-USHA funding?
    A. Upgrade laboratories
    B. Promote interdisciplinary research
    C. Decrease the number of students
    D. Foster innovation hubs
    Correct Answer: C. Decrease the number of students
    Explanation: The goals of the funding include upgrading facilities, promoting research, and fostering innovation, but they do not aim to decrease student enrollment.
  3. What aspect of education does the PM-USHA scheme particularly emphasize?
    A. Exclusivity
    B. Inclusivity
    C. Traditional learning methods
    D. Online education only
    Correct Answer: B. Inclusivity
    Explanation: The PM-USHA scheme focuses on making higher education accessible to all, especially women, minorities, and socially disadvantaged groups.

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