Vice-Chancellor meets Harpal Cheema over Punjabi University’s financial health

Tribune News Service

Patiala, July 13

Within a week of meeting the Higher Education Minister, Punjabi University Vice-Chancellor Arvind today met Finance Minister Harpal Cheema over the financial condition of the university. The university expects to receive a special grant from the state government to cover its previously availed bank loan.

A spokesperson of the university today said the Vice-Chancellor discussed matters, including taking over of the university’s bank loans and increasing its yearly grant, with the Finance Minister.

He said the state government increased the university’s allocation in the recent Budget from Rs 114 crore per year to Rs 200 crore, which included Rs 150 crore salary grant and Rs 50 crore non-salary grant. The university discussed with the minister that the non-salary grant be converted to salary component to enable it to manage its financial affairs properly. He said, “The university has also sought the government’s nod to increase its yearly allocation to Rs 240 crore from Rs 200 crore. Our yearly expenditure on salaries is Rs 360 crore. We urge the government to provide us Rs 240 crore.”

The senior functionaries discussed the proper utilisation of Central grants issued under various schemes and funds received from the corporate sector under the corporate social responsibility.

The varsity spokesperson said university officials discussed initiatives aimed to develop entrepreneurial and activity-oriented skills among the unemployed rural youths.

About The Author

Tribune News Service

The Tribune News Service brings you the latest news, analysis and insights from the region, India and around the world. Follow the Tribune News Service for a wide-ranging coverage of events as they unfold, with perspective and clarity.

#harpal cheema #Punjabi University Patiala