Expansion of Higher Education in MP with the New Education Policy, Role of Incubation Centers, and Promotion of Startups

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has stated that several innovations have been introduced in the state under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Universities have also been encouraged to implement innovations related to higher education. Efforts are continuously being made to improve the quality of education, and paramedical and nursing courses will also be offered by universities.

He emphasized that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi considers the creation of capable youth as the biggest guarantee for building a strong nation. As part of this vision, the NEP includes provisions to make youth knowledgeable and proficient in various fields. In line with this, Madhya Pradesh has undertaken several innovative initiatives in the field of higher education. The state is making successful efforts to provide education based on students' interests, skills, and capabilities, with the quality of higher education in the state being recognized as a leader.

1.29 Lakh Students Benefit from Multidisciplinary Education in MP:

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav has praised universities for implementing multidisciplinary education (multi-disciplinary approach) and employment-oriented courses. It was recently reported that continuous efforts are being made to inspire students to study various subjects. Currently, around one lakh students in the state are pursuing studies in commerce along with arts and science. Approximately 18,000 students from the arts faculty have studied commerce and science, while 11,000 students from the science faculty have chosen arts and commerce subjects. In total, 1.29 lakh students have benefited from multidisciplinary education.

Students in MP Pursuing Agricultural Education:

Dr. Yadav highlighted that Madhya Pradesh is at the forefront of implementing the National Education Policy. The study of agricultural courses at the undergraduate level has yielded excellent results. Seven universities and 18 government autonomous colleges in the state are offering B.Sc. Agriculture programs, benefiting 1,189 students. Vikram University, Ujjain, has the highest number of students, with 240 students pursuing agricultural education. In addition, five universities have initiated pilot training courses and aviation certificate programs, which will provide better employment opportunities for youth.

Active Role of Incubation Centers and Promotion of Startups:

The state is prioritizing skill development in higher education and has established 47 incubation centers to promote innovation and entrepreneurship. These centers include 16 in government universities, 12 in private universities, and 19 in government autonomous colleges. Devi Ahilya University, Indore, has received approval for Rs. 5 crore from the Ministry of Science and Technology, while Rani Durgavati University, Jabalpur, has been granted Rs. 2.5 crore by the Atal Innovation Mission of NITI Aayog. These incubation centers are playing a crucial role in promoting startups. At the university level, 65 startups have been initiated, and 295 startups have been launched in two private universities. Startups have also received funding from the universities. Currently, a total of 620 students have benefited from these startups.