(a) whether any norms have been prescribed for the inclusion of areas in the UGC
programme;
(b) if so, whether Government propose to change the existing norms to extend benefit of
the scheme for the tribals and other backward areas of the State;
(c) if so, whether Government proposes to include backward district of States
particularly Gujarat in the above programme; and
(d) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT (SHRI M.A.A. FATMI)
(a) to (d): According to the information furnished by the University Gratis Commission (UGC),
the UGC has been implementing a shceme entitled `Special Development Grant for Universities /
Colleges in Backward areas` for providing grants to Universities and Colleges located in the
educationally backward areas as identified by the Planning Commission (on the b`asis of the
2001 census). This is applicable to the State of Gujarat also.