Vidyanjali programme: 19 States & UTs have expressed

The HRD ministry today said that 19 states and UTs have expressed willingness to participate in a programme 'Vidyanjali' which would involve retired defence personnel, people from Indian diaspora and women home-makers to volunteer for co-scholastic activities in schools.
In a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha, HRD minister Smriti Irani said the ministry is working on this pilot project.
"These volunteers will not be replacement for regular teachers and will not be involved in formal teaching," Irani said.
She added that in a meeting of state education ministers held on February 8, 2016, 19 states and Union Territories have expressed willingness to participate in this programme on a pilot basis.

In a written reply to another question, Iran said that of 72 ragging complaints received by UGO during last year and current year, 57 cases have been fully redressed.
The remaining 15 cases are at an active stage of investigation and redressal, she added.