Question : STANDARDS OF EXCELLENCE, RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT

(a) whether the Government is promoting standards of excellence, research and development through the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER) in the country;

(b) if so, the details thereof;

(c) whether the degrees awarded by the premier Government institutions engaged in IISER education have been recognised by the other authorities;

(d) if so, the details thereof and if not, the reasons therefor;

(e) whether the Government proposes to set up more IISER institutions; and

(f) if so, the details thereof, State-wise?

THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT(SMT. D. PURANDESWARI)

(a) & (b) Yes, Sir, Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER) have been created with the mandate “to carry out research of international level in frontier areas of science and at the same time impart quality science education at the undergraduate and postgraduate level”. The graduates of IISER are expected to take up science as a career and the diverse skills gained will equip them to pursue good careers in other fields,including industry.

(c) & (d) Once the NIT Amendment Act Bill, 2010 is approved by the Parliament, the degree awarded by IISERs will be recognised.

(e) & (f) There is no proposal at present to set up more IISERs.