(a) whether the Government are formulating any scheme for the development of Agricultural Universities in the country and modernisation of education in these Universities;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the amount proposed to be allocated for this purpose to each Agricultural University;
(d) whether any amount was allocated for the development of Agricultural Universities during the Ninth Five Year Plan; and
(e) if so, the details thereof?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE (SHRI HUKUMDEO NARAYAN YADAV)
(a) & (b): Yes, Sir. There is an on-going scheme on Development & Strengthening of State Agricultural Universities under which a need based support is provided for strengthening and modernisation of educational programmes in the country.
(c) Between Rs. 5 to 7.5 crores is being proposed to be allocated to each State Agricultural university during Xth Five Year Plan. The allocation varies based upon number of institutions, types and strength of the programmes, intake and out turn of graduates etc.
(d) & (e): Yes, Sir. An amount of Rs. 131.30 crores was allocated for the development & Strengthening of Agricultural Universities during the IX Five Year Plan period.