Bhubaneswar, Dec 31 (Reporter) Odisha is set to receive a financial grant of Rs.676.7 crore under the PM-USHA Yojana for the development of infrastructure in its universities and colleges, State Higher Education Minister Suryavanshi Suraj announced on Tuesday. Addressing the media, Suraj stated that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the State Government's Higher Education Department and the Union Ministry of Education to implement the PM Utkhatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) Yojana within 81 days of the BJP government coming to power. He further mentioned that during the 3rd Project Approval Board meeting held by the Union Ministry of Education, it was decided to allocate Rs.676.7 crore to Odisha under this initiative. This funding will significantly contribute to the development of university and college infrastructure, human resource development, research, and skill enhancement for students. Out of the total grant, Rs.670 crore has been earmarked for 38 specific proposals, while Rs.6.7 crore will be allocated for Management, Monitoring, Evaluation, and Research (MMER). Of the Rs.676.7 crore, Rs.408.7 crore will be provided by the Central Government, and Rs.268 crore will come from the State Government. The grant amount has been categorized into five components: Multi-Disciplinary Education and Research Universities (MERU): Rs.100 crore each for four universities: Ravenshaw University, Berhampur University, Maharaja Sri Ram Chandra Bhanj Deo University, and Sambalpur University. Grants to Strengthen Universities: Rs.20 crore for five universities. Grants to Strengthen Colleges: Rs.5 crore each for 24 colleges. Gender Inclusion and Equality Initiatives: Rs.10 crore each for five districts. MMER Grant: Rs.6.7 crore. Suraj emphasized that the scheme would benefit universities and colleges in Aspirational Districts, ensuring access to higher education for all students and paving the way for a brighter future. Under the PM-USHA Yojana, infrastructure such as smart classrooms, laboratories, computer labs, academic buildings, and libraries will be developed in universities. Additionally, high-quality research facilities will be established, and initiatives will be undertaken to ensure inclusive education for students, including those with disabilities. The program will also focus on self-defense training, human resource development, and skill enhancement to improve students' employability. Efforts will be made to strengthen the infrastructure in colleges and universities within Aspirational Districts, enabling them to achieve NAAC accreditation. Regular reviews will be conducted for various projects under the Pradhan Mantri Higher Education Mission to ensure timely implementation and progress, the Minister added...////...