NEW DELHI: The Modi government is preparing a nationwide outreach programme under which a Union minister will visit a university every day to interact directly with students and understand their concerns, sources familiar with the plan told news agency PTI.
The proposed initiative, titled ‘One Day, One University’, is aimed at strengthening the government’s engagement with young people. During the visits, ministers are expected to discuss issues affecting the country with students, hear their views and explain government schemes meant for students and young people.
The plan comes amid intensified student protests over the NEET paper leak issue in Delhi and other parts of the country. The matter has also emerged as a political issue, with opposition parties raising it in Parliament.
According to sources, Education Minister Pralhad Joshi and Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya have been tasked with coordinating the programme with universities and other Union ministers.
The initiative was also discussed at the Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday, the sources said.
The proposed outreach is significant in scale. Data from the University Grants Commission shows that India has around 1,300 universities, including 57 central universities and 522 state universities. The remaining institutions are either deemed-to-be universities or private universities.
The government’s focus on students comes after a series of protests linked to the NEET controversy. On July 20, police action against protesting students in Delhi triggered a strong reaction from the opposition, which subsequently disrupted proceedings during the monsoon session of Parliament.
Amid the protests, Dharmendra Pradhan resigned as education minister on July 25. Prime Minister Modi also made several direct appeals to students through social media.
The government has continued to highlight initiatives focused on young people. In his Independence Day address, PM Modi announced several measures related to education, skills and employment, including free online coaching and an artificial intelligence skilling programme.
He also announced a sports talent hunt and plans to expand the civil defence network. The Prime Minister highlighted opportunities for young Indians in sectors including manufacturing, space, nuclear energy and semiconductor production.
The proposed university visits are intended to add a direct, face-to-face element to this outreach, giving students an opportunity to interact with members of the Union government at their own institutions.
