AMRITSAR: A Welfare committee of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha today visited Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, to review the implementation of government welfare schemes for students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Backward Classes (BC). The committee, led by Chairperson Smt. Sarabjit Kaur Manuke, and members namely, Sh. Amit Rattan, Dr. Jasbir Sandhu, Dr. Nachhatar Pal, S. Dalbir Singh Tong , S.Jagsir Singh and other Vidhan Sabha Staff was warmly welcomed by Vice Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Karamjeet Singh, who presented bouquets to the visiting members.
Prof. Singh apprised the committee that the University has been diligently implementing all government welfare schemes for SC/ST and BC students. He highlighted that the institution has been making sustained efforts to reduce dropout rates, disburse scholarships on time, and introduce employment-oriented programmes to empower students from reserved categories.
Chairperson Smt. Manuke said that the committee’s primary aim is to ensure effective execution of government welfare initiatives and to address any challenges that may arise in their implementation. She emphasized that “no student should face discrimination at any level, ” and that all students must receive the benefits they are entitled to in a fair and timely manner.
She appreciated Guru Nanak Dev University’s administration, discipline, and welfare mechanisms, commending the Vice Chancellor and staff for maintaining a transparent and supportive environment. The committee also recommended that all welfare schemes be periodically reviewed to ensure that no eligible student is deprived of benefits.
During the interaction, the committee raised queries related to a few student grievances, which were promptly addressed by the University authorities. Dr. Vikram Sandhu, Nodal Officer, presented a detailed report on the activities and schemes implemented by the University for the welfare of students from reserved categories.
The committee also suggested strengthening and separating the Nodal Cell and Student Counselling mechanism, allowing students to discuss personal or academic issues confidentially with designated officers and counsellors.
Among those present were Dean Academic Affairs Dr. Palwinder Singh, Registrar Prof. K.S. Chahal, Dean Student Welfare Dr. H.S. Saini, Dr. Vikram Sandhu, Nodal Officer SC/ST, several faculty members and students related to the community.