Arjun Singh's Rs 10 cr gift to AU

Allahabad, Feb 16 (UNI) Minister for Human Resource Development Arjun Singh today announced a grant Rs 10 Crore to Allahabad University (AU) for enriching its library.

Mr Singh, who was the chief guest at the inaugural function of first Alumni Convention of AU, said ''as the varsity has got Central University status, thus, its inheritance should be richer.'' He further said the grant would encourage reading habit in students.

However, expressing concern over the deteriorating quality of education in AU, Mr Singh said ''the varsity that was known for its quality education is no more imparting the same and situation has worsened in the recent years.'' Recounting his old days in AU, he said we should focus on education for all, including dalits and other backward class.

''Education is the best medium to attain an equity based society, thus, it should not be sold as a commodity,'' he observed.

''I got the opportunity to meet Gandhiji and Nehruji for the first time in this holy city. It was the blessing of two that I have attained such a position in my political career. For me, remembering Allahabad is just remembering the 'heroic energy' of the country,'' he further added.

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