More seats likely for minority in higher education in Maharashtra

Updated on: Tuesday, October 18, 2011

In an effort to boost higher education among minorities, Maharashtra Government is planning to increase the number of seats for them in medical and engineering colleges.

Minorities Affairs Minister Mohammed Arif Naseem Khan said that efforts are on to start additional classes for minorities in seven government engineering colleges, while discussions are on to increase the number of seats for minorities in 14 medical and three dental colleges.

According to the minister, as per the 15-point programme of Prime Minister, it is neccessary to encourage minorities to take up the medical and engineering courses.

"Accordingly, Medical Education Department should examine whether it is possible to give maximum seats for minority students.

Reservation for minorities in IAS training centres has increased. Similarly, medical colleges can also enhance the number of seats," he said.

The minister said that out of the increased number of seats, 70 per cent can be reserved for minorities and 30 per cent for others.

Khan said in 44 ITIs and seven polytechnique colleges, classes have been started in the second shift for minorities and the scheme is getting a good response.

He said, encouraged by the response, the government now plans to provide more seats in engineering and medical colleges.

"The entire expenditure for the purpose would be borne by the Minorities Department," Khan said.

More seats likely for minority in higher education in Maharashtra

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