Bill creates Rani Lakshmi Bai Central Agricultural University in Jhansi

Who it concerns: The Bill affects the new university, its students, teachers, and staff; colleges and research institutions within the specified jurisdiction; and the government of India (specifically the President of India as Visitor and the Central Government for approvals). It applies to the Bundelkhand region, covering seven districts in Uttar Pradesh (Banda, Chitrakoot, Hamirpur, Jalaun, Jhansi, Lalitpur, Mahoba) and six districts in Madhya Pradesh (Chhatarpur, Damoh, Datia, Panna, Sagar, Tikamgarh).

What the bill does

• Establishes the Rani Lakshmi Bai Central Agricultural University with headquarters in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh.
• Mandates the initial establishment of two colleges in Jhansi (UP) and subsequently two colleges in Madhya Pradesh.
• Defines the university's jurisdiction over specific districts in UP and MP, bringing existing colleges and research stations under its direct management as constituent units rather than affiliated ones.
• Designates the President of India as the Visitor of the University, with powers to inspect and inquire into administration and finances.
• Grants the university powers to grant degrees, diplomas, and honorary distinctions, and to establish campuses, laboratories, and Krishi Vigyan Kendras.
• Requires the university to be open to all classes, castes, and creeds, while allowing special provisions for women, handicapped persons, and weaker sections of society.
• Creates specific governing bodies including the Board of Management, Academic Council, Research Council, and Extension Education Council.

Also in the document

• The Bill is introduced as a central legislation to create a new body corporate with perpetual succession.
• It explicitly defines 'agriculture' to include soil and water management, crop production, animal husbandry, fisheries, forestry, and agricultural engineering.
• The university is empowered to borrow money with the approval of the Central Government.