Delhi University to establish Centre for Advanced studies in Buddhist Studies
New Delhi, April 29
The University of Delhi is set to establish a Centre for Advanced Studies in Buddhist Studies.
According to Delhi University, administrative approval for Phase I of this project has already been received from the Ministry of Minority Affairs under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) scheme.
The objective of this Centre would be to facilitate collaboration between the University and the Ministry to enhance educational opportunities for minority communities in India, particularly in the field of Buddhist Studies, through establishment and strengthening of the required infrastructure for undertaking Undergraduate, Postgraduate, Ph.D and research programs.
The University will organize training programs and workshops for faculty members involved in teaching Buddhist Studies courses to enhance their pedagogical skills and subject knowledge
The Executive Council of the University of Delhi has also approved the construction of a building for the Institute of Nano Medical Sciences at Maurice Nagar.
An in-principle approval of Rs 174.20 crore has been granted for the project, and the preparation of detailed estimates and the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been entrusted to the Central Public Works Department.
The Building Committee has also approved a revised estimate of Rs 233.35 crore for the construction of studio apartments at the Dhaka Complex. This construction, intended for hostel facilities, had already received approval from the Ministry of Education, under which an estimated loan of Rs 161 crore was to be provided through HEFA.
At the Delhi School of Economics, located in the North Campus of Delhi University, the revised built-up area for the construction of two academic blocks has been approved at approximately 4,406.12 square metres. This revision has been made by reducing the number of trees to be removed or relocated from 67 to 33. The proposal remains within the previously approved estimated cost of Rs 246.80 crore.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good move. But I hope the funds under the PMJVK scheme actually reach the intended minority communities. Often, such projects become just another bureaucratic exercise with buildings but no real impact on ground-level education. Let's see if they also offer scholarships for students from these communities.
Rs 174 crore for Nano Medical Sciences? That's huge! But it's justified if it leads to breakthroughs in cancer treatment or drug delivery. Meanwhile, the studio apartments at Dhaka Complex sound overdue—DU hostels are a mess. Hope they build proper facilities rather than just claiming space. Budget allocation looks okay but execution is key.
About time! Buddhist philosophy is incredibly relevant today—mindfulness, non-violence, and sustainability. I just hope the curriculum is modern and not just ancient texts. Also, reducing 67 trees to 33 being cut? Still 33 trees lost. Can't we have development without destroying nature? DU's North Campus is already losing its green cover. 🌳
As someone from a minority community, I welcome this. But let's be real—how many students from minority backgrounds will actually get to study here? The centres are often in posh locations with minimal outreach. The government should ensure affordable fees and local scholarships in low-income areas. Otherwise, it's just another elite institution.
Nice to see Delhi University expanding its academic horizons. Buddhist Studies is not a 'minority' subject—it's part of India's civilizational legacy. Also, the revised plan
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