The central government has recently highlighted its investment of ₹68 crore in Visva-Bharati University, located in Santiniketan, West Bengal. This financial commitment underscores the government's focus on bolstering education and preserving the legacy of Rabindranath Tagore, who founded the institution in 1921.
Visva-Bharati holds a unique position as a central university and an Institute of National Importance. Declared as such by an Act of Parliament in 1951, it distinguishes itself as the only central university in West Bengal. The university's leadership structure includes the President of India as the Paridarsaka (Visitor), the Governor of West Bengal as the Pradhana (Rector), and the Prime Minister of India as the Acharya (Chancellor).
The financial infusion aims to support various initiatives within the university, enhancing its infrastructure, academic programs, and research capabilities. This investment aligns with the broader goals of the Rashtriya Uchchatara Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) scheme, which seeks to improve the quality of higher education across India. Calcutta University, for example, received ₹35 crore under RUSA 2.0 to be spent on instruments and research.
Visva-Bharati is actively pursuing collaborations with industries to enhance employment opportunities for students. "Confluence 2025," held in November 2025, was organized to create a platform for students and scholars to interact with potential employers, with participation from approximately 55 industries.
The university is also expanding its footprint with a new campus in Ramgarh, Nainital district, Uttarakhand. The Uttarakhand government has provided 45 acres of land free of cost for this purpose, and the university plans to establish five schools of studies there.
Visva-Bharati offers a range of workshops and seminars, including a workshop on "Natural dyeing" in November 2025 and a national workshop on "The relevance and application of Indian Knowledge System in Research and Development". These programs reflect the university's commitment to preserving and promoting Indian culture and knowledge systems.
