NEW DELHI: Despite the Herculean task at hand, the five sub-groups of the Oversight Committeehave reported the possibility of increasing the intake in Central educational institutions by 54 per cent from 2007-08 without diluting the quality of education. The committee was preparing the roadmap for the implementation of reservation for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in these institutions.

This possibility was stated by the Oversight Committee Chairman Veerappa Moily here on Monday after a meeting to finalise the interim report, which will be presented to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh later this week. Though the Government had not asked for an interim report, the Committee offered to prepare one to facilitate advance action as a lot of ground work needs to be done to ensure that the quantum leap in intake is smooth.

Though Mr. Moily refused to divulge details about the report, he indicated that the Committee had suggested more financial and administrative autonomy for the institutions so that the necessary infrastructure can be put in place without going through the cumbersome process of government approvals. To monitor this, every institution will be allowed to set up an Empowerment Committee which can take decisions; thereby cutting through the red-tape.

On faculty shortage, the Committee has suggested that the age of superannuation of teachers be increased. Also, retired teachers may be appointed on a contractual basis and the industry tapped for meeting the faculty shortage.

As for infrastructure, more optimum utilisation of existing facilities has been suggested. However, on the agricultural education front, the sub-committee reported acute shortage of hostel rooms. Since construction of new hostels will take time, the Oversight Committee has suggested temporary renting of accommodation.

Since funds are a main cause of concern despite assurances to the contrary, the Committee is of the view that at least 10 per cent of what is needed over the next five years should be released immediately to boost the confidence of the institutions.

Meanwhile, all Central educational institutions where OBC reservation is to be implemented have been asked to submit detailed project reports in time for the finalisation of the Oversight Committee's final report. The final report has to be submitted to the Government by August 31.

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