JAMMU: The Executive Council of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) has given its in-principle approval for the introduction of two new academic programmes and the construction of a new boys’ hostel. The decisions were made during the 37th meeting of the council, chaired by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who also serves as the Chancellor of the university.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the meeting, held at the Kakryal campus in Katra, also saw the approval of the university’s budget proposals for the 2026-27 fiscal year and the final audit report for 2024-25. The council endorsed the development of the university’s sports complex in collaboration with the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board (SMVDSB) to enhance sports facilities for students and staff.
A significant development was the in-principle approval for launching a Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Laws (B.A. LL.B. Hons.) programme and a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Food Technology. The council also suggested exploring the feasibility of offering an LL.B. programme that combines law with science and commerce streams, aiming to broaden academic opportunities.
The construction of a new 200-bed boys’ hostel was also approved, with funding to be provided by the SMVDSB. The university has been tasked with preparing a detailed project report for this infrastructure development. Furthermore, enhanced financial assistance for students participating in national and international academic events, including conferences and workshops, was sanctioned.
The Executive Council adopted the university’s proposed institutional anthem, known as the Kulgeet. A strategic decision was also made to develop a five-year roadmap for the university. This roadmap will be formulated based on a sustainable operating model, following consultations with the Academic Council and the Finance Committee to ensure long-term viability and growth.
The meeting included a comprehensive review of the university’s academic, administrative, and financial progress. Initiatives planned for upcoming academic sessions were also discussed. The council ratified the nomination of external members to both the Executive Council and the Academic Council. The status of ongoing and completed construction projects was assessed, with directions issued to ensure the timely completion of pending works.
Lieutenant Governor Sinha urged the university administration to implement counselling services, mental health support programmes, and value-based awareness initiatives for students. He also recommended subscribing to online counselling platforms to bolster student support systems.
Acknowledging the contributions of students involved in extracurricular activities, Sinha called for academic relaxation for NSS and NCC cadets selected to represent the university at national-level events. He also proposed awarding additional academic credits to recognize their achievements.
The Lieutenant Governor further advocated for the introduction of industry-linked vocational courses. These courses, designed to be delivered by university faculty and external experts, should be accessible to students irrespective of minimum eligibility criteria, fostering practical skills and employability.
University Vice Chancellor Prof. Pragati Kumar provided a briefing on key areas including admissions, recruitment processes, faculty career advancement schemes, ongoing construction projects, and the proposed new academic programmes for the forthcoming academic year.
The meeting was attended by several dignitaries, including Vice Chancellor of the University of Jammu Prof. Umesh Rai, Vice Chancellor of the University of Kashmir Prof. Nilofer Khan, Ahmedabad University Vice Chancellor and Board of Management Chairman Prof. Pankaj Chandra, former Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Petroleum Technology Director Prof. A.S.K. Sinha, IIT Jammu Director Prof. Manoj Singh Gaur, Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari, SMVDSB CEO Sachin Kumar Vaishya, and SMVDU Registrar Ajay Kumar Sharma, along with other members of the Executive Council.
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