‘Decision on private varsities bill in 2 weeks’

The long-pending decision on the private universities bill in the state is expected to be taken in the next two weeks, said the minister for higher and technical education, Rajesh Tope.

The bill was discussed during the winter session, but a decision on it could not be taken as the poll code of conduct came into force. Tope was speaking on the sidelines of the 23rd convocation ceremony of Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth (TMV).

While talking to the media, he said, “This year, the Common Entrance Test (CET) will be conducted by the state and the decision for next year will be taken after talking to the stakeholders that includes parents, students and various other organisations.”

“The cabinet has not yet given the nod for performing arts universities. Similarly, the place to establish this university has also not been fixed,” he said.

Meanwhile, veteran music director Hridyanath Mangeshkar and social activist Madhav Ratnaparkhi alias Mangalnath Maharaj were awarded the D’Lit.

TMV chancellor VG Palshikar, vice chancellor Deepak Tilak and registrar Umesh Keskar were present on the occasion.
Mangeshkar said, “It is a proud moment for me to receive this degree from this university, which is known as Lokmanya Tilak’s educational memorial. My sister Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosale have already received this degree.”

Ratnaparkhi said, “The university truly adheres to the values of Lokmanya Tilak by imparting academic and spiritual values to the students.