Keeping track of progress on Vedanta University (proposed near Puri, Orissa, India)

Vedanta University comes to existence: Act passed in Orissa assembly

2009-07-31T21:45:00.000-07:00

Finally, the Vedanta University Bill has got the approval of the State Legislative Assembly on Thursday.

With this the authorities would be able to set up a multi-disciplinary varsity on a sprawling 6,000 acre land along the Puri-Konark Marine Drive Road. Chairman of the Knowledge Commission Sam Pitroda is likely to be the first VC of the Vedanta University. Besides, at least three Nobel laureates have been roped in to join as faculty, sources said.

Earlier, the Opposition as well as the Treasury bench members frowned upon some of the provisions made in the Varsity Bill. A number of amendments were brought in the existing provision. The proposed varsity would not be able to open off campus or off shore centre in relation to academic programmes of the institution.

Government chief whip Rabi Narayan Pani and Opposition Chief Whip Prasad Harichandan moved two separate amendments for the consideration of the House. Both opposed the provision allowing the varsity to open off campus centres.

“The legislation passed in the State Assembly has its purview in the territory of Orissa. Therefore, it would be illogical to allow the varsity to open off campus centres,” Harichandan said, adding that the varsity should be allowed to open regional campuses inside the State. Harichandan also cited the instance of a Supreme Court judgment striking down the Chhattishgarh Government’s act of allowing a varsity to open off campus.

“We asked the varsity authorities to open regional campuses inside the State. We have also proposed them certain locations in the KBK region, southern and northern Orissa for opening up of the campuses,” Higher Education Minister Debi Mishra said while replying to the amendments brought by the members.

As per the provision, the employees would not be treated as public servants. However, the Government would not interfere in the selection process of the employees. Merit would be given due consideration at the time of admission as its motto is to develop it as a world-class university. But no reservation facilities would be extended to either Oriya students or SC and ST students. Earlier, there was a demand to extend 10 per cent reservation facilities to the SC and ST and Oriya students. But the demand was struck down.

However, financial relaxations would be provided to SC and ST and weaker sections of the society.

Two MLAs would be taken as the members in the Management Board of the University.

If the University authorities don’t go ahead in establishing the university, the land would ultimately come back to the Government. If there is any dissolution of the university, it has to given a notice to the Government and employees and students of the university at least three year in advance.

Higher Education Minister Mishra also maintained that the university was required for the development of education in the State. He also rejected BJP legislature party leader KV Singh Deo’s apprehension that Vedanta might get benefit from the rich sand minerals. “The Centre is empowered to take a decision if any mineral is available in the land,” he said.

Here are some other reports on the topic: Economic Times, Business Standard, tathya.in.

Following are some excerpts from the Business Standard report.

The admissions to the university will be on merit basis. Though there is no reservation in admission and recruitment for the Orissa students, the university authorities will set up knowledge centres in different regions of the state for development of higher education in these areas.

Similarly, there will be concession in the fee structure for the weaker section, scheduled caste, scheduled tribe students of the state. The governing body of the university will comprise of 16 members. They will include two MLAs, one lady from SC or ST community and two nominated members of the government who includes the higher education secretary and an eminent educationist of the state.

If the university authorities choose to close down the institution, they will have to give notice for it three years in advance. In that case, the land acquired for the university from the local people, government and the Lord Jagannath temple will revert back to the original title holders. The land will be transferred to them at the price at which the land was acquired. It may be noted, the project will require 6000 acres of land.

… Meanwhile, the ICFAI University Bill, which was also tabled in the house, was referred to a select committee of the state assembly.

Following is an excerpt from tathya.in.

More than 40 lawmakers participated in the marathon discussion which covered 20 amendments.

Most important is fee relaxation for the poor, SC ST and meritorious students of the state, for which university authorities will formulate a separate policy, announced Mr.Mishra.

Secondly 2 of the lawmakers of Orissa House will find place in the Board of Governors.

Most importantly, if the University fails to come up, the land losers will receive back their land.

Land losers will also get facility to allow their children to read in the University with a liberal fee.

The amendments seem pretty reasonable.

Moreover, I really applaud the democratic process. The Bill was first presented in December 2008 and was tabled. This time it was presented on Saturday the 25th July 2009. There have been discussion on it since then and several hours on the 29th and almost the full day of July 30th was spent on debating and going over the bill clause by clause and making 20 amendments. I applaud the Orissa lawmakers to have done their job diligently. I admire the whole process. I hope the proceedings was recorded in video and would be some day made available to generation of Orissans and Vedanta University alumni.

A few recent news article on Vedanta University -Thanks to state Govt and Central govt for support

2008-04-28T07:09:00.000-07:00

Vedanta’s Orissa projects are on schedule: Agarwal
Thaindian.com - Bangkok,Bangkok,Thailand, 26th april 2008
http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/business/vedantas-orissa-projects-are-on-schedule-agarwal_10042388.html

Vedanta to establish hospital first
NewindPress, Sunday April 27 2008 07:06 IST
http://www.newindpress.com/NewsItems.asp?ID=IEQ20080426204512&Page=Q&Title=ORISSA&Topic=0

Vedanta to be growth engine of Orissa
Statesman News ServiceBHUBANESWAR, April 27
http://www.thestatesman.net/page.news.php?clid=9&theme=&usrsess=1&id=201506

'Vedanta doing well with Centre and Orissa govt support'
Monday, April 28, 2008; Posted: 12:14 AMhttp://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/news/Stock%20News/1446509/

Rejoinder to "Vedanta University: a flawed pipe dream"

2007-08-28T16:25:00.000-07:00

http://www.thehindu.com/2007/08/29/stories/2007082955271300.htm

Following is a rejoinder to the above article.

While it is possible that Vedanta University, may not turn out as envisioned,
it is definitely not a flawed pipe dream. We now show why some of the arguments given by Prof. Philip G. Altbach is flawed.

1. This article talks about $1 billion (the number $3 billion is thrown as an afterthought towards the end of his article) and how it is not a lot money. First, Vedanta University folks have talked about $3 billion, not $1 billion. The $1 billion number is the number that Mr. Agrawal has pledged to contribute; not the number he thinks the university needs. He thinks the later number to be $3 billion. If one wonders where the rest of the $2 billion is supposed to come, then there are two likely sources: (i) the tution paid by the students and (ii) the use of the real estate in the planned city around the Vedanta University.

Next, lets look at the budget of some of the existing Indian institutions:

The 7 IITs had a budget of 683.5 crores in 2006-07 and a budget of 1553.70 crores (taking into account the expansion plan) for 2007-08.
The Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore had a budget of 168 crores in 2006-07 and 283 crores for 2007-08.
The 6 IIMs had a budget of 74 crores in 2006-07 and a budget of 144 crores for 2007-08.
UGC had a budget of 2700.17 crores in 2006-07 and 3763.52 crores in 2007-08. This include funding about 20 central universities (does not include IGNOU)
IGNOU had a budget of 91 crores in 2006-07 and a budget of 98.2 crores in 2007-08.
SPA (School of Planning and Architecture) had a budget of 10.20 crores in 2006-07 and 22.30 crores in 2007-08.
National Institute of Design had a budget of 11.25 crores in 2006-07 and 20.25 crores in 2007-08.
Indian Statistical Institute had a budget of 59.14 crores in 2006-07 and 73.01 crores in 2007-08.
The new IISERs are to be made at a cost of 500 crores each (over a period of 5-7 years)
The new IITs are to be made at a cost of 1000 crores each (over a period of 5-7 years)
The new central universities are to be made at a cost of 300 crores each (over a period of 5-7 years)

What Vedanta University folks have said is that they will spend $1 billion in the initial phase (i.e. Rs 4000 crores) and $3 billion (Rs 12,000 crores) over the next 10-15 years.

Based on the estimates about Rs 4000 crores can be used to build two new IITs (1000 crore*2) + two new IISERs (500 crores*2) + two new central universities (300 crores*2) + two new IIMs (150 crores estimate) + a new National Institute of Design (100 crores estimate). The recurring cost of these would be at 2006-07 estimates would be 2 IITs (200 crores total), two IISERs (200 crores total), two central universities (200 crores), two IIMs (30 crores), an NID (12 crores) = 650 crores. That is about 650/(8000) = 8.125% of the remaining $2 billion of the Vedanta University estimate which is a fairly small percentage of interest. (The Indian market has been making much more in recent years.)

2. Tthe article says: "No research university in the world has 100,000 students or even anything close."

As per, http://www.osu.edu/osutoday/stuinfo.php#enroll_large
following are some large research universities in the US

Arizona State University, Main Campus	51,612
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities	51,175
The Ohio State University	50,504
University of Texas, Austin	49,696
University of Florida	49,693
Michigan State University	45,166
Texas A&M University, College Station	44,910
University of Illinois, Urbana	41,862
University of Wisconsin, Madison	41,447
Pennsylvania State University, University Park	40,709

As per http://www.asu.edu/enroll/news/news2.html
ASU will have 90,000 students in its campuses by 2020. (Note that
all its campuses are in the Phoenix metro area. It is not like the multi-campus
UC system or U of Texas system.)

So Vedanta's goal of 100,000 students around the same time is not that different.

3. Location: It seems the author does not have much idea about the location. The Vedanta University location is about 30 miles from the outer periphery (read Khurda) of Bhubaneswar metropolitan area (the capital of Orissa) . Bhubaneswar is very well connected with the rest of the country both by train (BBSR, Khurda Rd Schedules, Puri Schedules) and by plane and it is expected to have international flights within a year or two. The Bhubaneswar metropolitan area has a current population of 1.6 million and at the rate it is growing (both in area and population) it is likely that by 2020 it will be more than 3 million and its periphery would be close to (if not completely engulfing) Vedanta University.

4. India is hungry for good higher education and people are willing to pay for it. May be the example of KIIT, Bhubaneswar (Orissa) will open the eyes of the author. KIIT was started in 1992 by three young people with an initial investment of few thousand rupees. In 15 years it has programs in multiple fields (engineering, management, medical science, Rural management, biotechnology, Social Sciences, Dentistry, Diploma, ITI, international high school) and is a deemed university. The growth and revenue of ICFAI and Amity also illustrates the revenue potential. Although none of the above are research universities, Vedanta University can collect similar revenues and spend a big part of it in research.

So it is not unreasonable that Vedanta University will have enough students paying enough in tuition to sustain it. Moreover, one should not take the real estate aspect of Vedanta University lightly. With 6000 acres, there will be enough land left beyond the core university, to earn a handsome income, which can then be ploughed into Vedanta University's research programs.
Currently, Bhubaneswar is a destination for many IT companies for their development centers. It has the big 4 of India (Wipro, Infosys, TCS and Satyam), IBM and many small and medium sized IT companies. With a top-notch environment the research park around Vedanta university should be able to attract research divisions of international companies.

Economist's article on Anil Agarwal - mentions Vedanta University

2007-07-26T11:45:00.000-07:00

Face value

Tested mettle

Jul 26th 2007
From The Economist print edition

Anil Agarwal has built a mining and metals giant in less than a decade

AS HE looks out over Mumbai's main airport, where a queue of planes wait their turn to ascend into the leaden monsoon sky, Anil Agarwal describes the transformation he has watched through his office window. In three years, he says, “the number of planes has grown four times—can you imagine?” Many Indian-based companies have experienced galloping growth in recent years, airlines among them. But few have kept pace with Mr Agarwal's Vedanta Resources, a London-listed mining and metals group, of which he is the chairman, founder and, with his family, owner of a 54% stake.

When Mr Agarwal founded the company in 1979 he was a scrap-metal merchant with ambitions to own a cable-making company. By the early 1990s, when India embarked on the liberal reforms that were to enable him to make his fortune, he was battling to establish a modest copper smelter. But in the past two years the market capitalisation of Vedanta—named after Mr Agarwal's mother—has increased fivefold to $10 billion. Last month 20% of the group's flagship company, Sterlite Industries, one of India's biggest producers of zinc, copper and aluminium, was floated on the New York Stock Exchange for over $2 billion—the biggest overseas sale of shares by an Indian company. Last year Vedanta turned over $6.5 billion, an increase of 76% on the previous year, and nearly half of it profit.

High metal prices, driven in part by India's own rapid growth, help explain the surge. But so do Mr Agarwal's instincts for his market: Vedanta's float in London in 2003 proved to be brilliantly timed. He has been equally adept at turning around a series of unprofitable, formerly state-owned companies. The group encountered little competition when it bid for a controlling stake in Hindustan Zinc, a loss-making state-owned firm, in 2002. It proceeded to cut its costs in half and increase its capacity fivefold. Hindustan Zinc is now the group's most profitable unit and the lowest-cost zinc producer in the world. With such a record, Mr Agarwal laughs at the prospect of lower prices. “Everyone's going to die,” he says. “But we must die last.”

In an industry in which size matters, he is pushing ahead with Vedanta's expansion. The group plans to invest $8 billion in the next three years to consolidate existing ventures and launch new ones. In April he extended his reach into iron ore by acquiring 51% of Sesa Goa, India's largest iron-ore exporter. The group also has ambitions in power generation, arguably the biggest constraint on India's growth. It has proposed building a $1.9 billion power station in Orissa, where it is also awaiting approval for a vast greenfield bauxite mine. Despite big investments in Australia, Zambia and elsewhere, India is where Mr Agarwal sees the group's greatest potential for growth. The group is skilled at handling the country's sometimes slippery officialdom—unlike foreign-based rivals, such as BHP Billiton and Anglo American, which have no presence in India. “It helps that we understand India,” says Mr Agarwal.

In a way, he is emblematic of India's emergence. Around half of India's dozen richest businessmen are self-made men. But none more so than Mr Agarwal, now 53, whose personal fortune is estimated at $5.4 billion. When he left school at 15, he knew no English, the language of India's seasoned elite. Even after a decade based in London, his English remains imperfect. “We are very humble,” he says, his unwitting use of the royal “we” perhaps making him sound rather grander than he intended.

Start small, think big

In the 1990s Mr Agarwal's copper and cable businesses grew on the back of the telecoms boom. He then raised his game in 2001 with Sterlite's successful bid for 51% of the Bharat Aluminium Company (BALCO), India's first privatisation. The deal was consistent with his strategy of backward integration—but also with Mr Agarwal's record for controversy. In 1998 Sterlite was briefly banned from India's capital markets over allegations of insider trading, though the order was later repealed. The BALCO deal was marred by a two-month strike by the company's workers. As the symbol of a still-controversial (and now apparently mothballed) divestment programme, it remains politically sensitive. Sterlite has therefore been unable to exercise an option to buy the remaining 49% of BALCO.

Few Indian companies have grown so fast without stirring controversy. Just as remarkable was the ease with which Mr Agarwal graduated from managing a medium-sized company to running a large group. This has not sated his appetite for risk. As he puts it: “As an individual, we're very strong as an entrepreneur.” Mr Agarwal says he remains interested in further acquisitions, but concedes that his hands are rather full. If approved, Vedanta's plans in Orissa, which holds the world's fourth-biggest bauxite deposit, will keep him particularly busy. He faces strong opposition from environmentalists and local tribes, however. The example of POSCO, a South Korean steelmaker, is not encouraging. Three years after announcing plans for a $12 billion steel project in Orissa, it is still waiting for the requisite permits and land. Then again, Mr Agarwal is not South Korean.

He is Indian, and proud to be—hence, he says, his philanthropic scheme to donate $1 billion to found a world-class university in India. Vedanta University will be constructed on a 3,200-hectare site in Orissa and will cater for 100,000 students when it is completed, around 2025. “When you go to the US, you see their large universities, Harvard and Berkeley, and we don't have them,” says Mr Agarwal. “Yet the biggest thing you can give to people is education.” Sceptics say he has chosen Orissa as the site for the university for political reasons. It is certainly an extraordinarily ambitious scheme. But there is no doubting Mr Agarwal's ability to overcome obstacles and establish giant enterprises with surprising speed.

More pictures and plan diagrams of Vedanta University

2007-07-11T08:21:00.000-07:00

Two articles on Vedanta University in the Chronicles of Higher Education

2007-07-09T08:47:00.000-07:00

Chronicles of Higher Education has two premium articles ( one needs a subscription to read the full article). Following are links to those articles and excerpts from them.

Article 1: For Planners, the Opportunity of a Lifetime
By LAWRENCE BIEMILLER

Baltimore

In an office a few feet from the chop of the Baltimore harbor, architects are drawing plans for a vast university campus on the east coast of India that would be shaped like twin blossoms, bordered by a lake, and entered through any of 34 gates, each with its own name and symbolism. As beautiful as a mandala and as intricate as a postgraduate mathematics problem, it’s almost certainly the most ambitious campus plan ever conceived.

On more than 7,500 acres, Vedanta University and its environs would accommodate a liberal-arts program, an engineering school, an agriculture college, a medical campus, Olympics-grade sports facilities, townships for faculty and staff members, parklands, a resort, and even its own airport. At the behest of Anil Agarwal, an industrialist who has pledged $1-billion toward its construction, the campus is being designed to house 100,000 students and to fulfill the donor’s dream of creating an institution that is Indian and world-class at the same time. … MORE
Article 2: In Rural India, an Ambitious Academic Vision:
A mining mogul with big ideas is determined to build an elite, American-style university for 100,000 students in Orissa. Farmers, who own the land he wants to develop, plan to resist.

By SHAILAJA NEELAKANTAN

Bhubaneshwar, India

A few miles outside the town of Puri, in the eastern Indian state of Orissa, lies Beladala, a farming village of thatch-roofed homes. One recent afternoon a group of farmers sat on the porch of the village’s small school eating a lunch of rice, lentils, and vegetables on plates made of broad leaves. … MORE

A competitor of Vedanta University: Nalanda University in Bihar

2007-06-16T15:35:00.000-07:00

Oldest varsity to be Bihar’s newest one

Amitava Sanyal, Hindustan Times

Email Author

New Delhi, June 17, 2007

First Published: 00:56 IST(17/6/2007)

Last Updated: 03:29

Nalanda, one of the world’s oldest universities, is being revived by the Bihar government. The state has acquired the land required for the Rs 1,000-crore project and the university could have functioning schools as early as next year, more than eight centuries after Bakhtiar Khilji destroyed it.

Though it taught science, mathematics and logic, ancient Nalanda’s pre-eminence in Buddhist studies has got the governments of Japan, China and Singapore interested in the project. "The university would not belong to Bihar, it would belong to the world," Dr Madan Jha, Bihar’s principal secretary (education), told Sunday HT.

Among the seven schools planned in the five-year first phase — at the end of which it would have 4,530 students and 453 faculty members — would be those that offer integrated post-graduate and research programmes in information technology, bioinformatics, developmental studies, and applied sciences.

The Department of Natural Resource Management would supply agricultural technology to 300 villages around the 500 acres bought by the state for the project.

President APJ Abdul Kalam played guardian angel when, 16 months ago, he listed Nalanda’s reconstruction as one of Bihar’s 10 priorities.

Since then, apart from buying the land, the Nitish Kumar government has enacted the legislation necessary for setting up the university.
According to the project report prepared by the Educational Consultants India, the international character of the university would partly flow from the 46 faculty members that would be hired from abroad (there would be 582 faculty members at the end of the 10-year project).

The report mentions an annual salary of $36,000 (Rs 14.4 lakh) for each of them. The plan for the university buildings, too, would be open to bidding by international consultants.

The way ahead is to be decided by a ‘mentor group’ chaired Professor Amartya Sen, the Nobel laureate. The first meeting of the group — which would include Harvard historian Sugata Bose, Singapore Foreign Minister George Yeoh and scholars from Japan and China — is scheduled in Singapore in July. The group would later meet in Tokyo, Beijing and India before submitting its recommendations by the end of the year.

Shigeyuki Shimamori, counsellor in charge of cultural affairs at the Japanese embassy in Delhi, said: "We hope this group is not yet closed. The more members, the better. We would think of funding the project only after the mentor group’s recommendations."

Vedanta University: its architect and their initial designs

2007-05-12T07:13:00.000-07:00

Ayers Saint Gross, a Baltimore USA firm, is in charge of Vedanta University’s campus master plan. The client list of Ayers Saint Gross is extremely impressive and as per their web site today includes Arizona State University, University of Arizona, Carnegie Mellon University, Case Western Reserve University, University of Chicago, Duke University, Emory University, Franklin and Marshall College, Guangzhou China University City, George Washington University, University of Georgia, Johns Hopkins University, University of Maryland College Park, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, University of Notre Dame, Rutgers University, University of Virginia, University of Wisconsin, Madison and Vedanta University.

Based on their list of current projects they are involved in the Building design and architecture of academic buildings of Vedanta University as well as its campus planning. Following is a blurb from their site.

Vedanta University
Campus Master Plan
Orissa, India

Completion: 2012 (phase !)
Size: 8,000 acres
Cost: N/A

Ayers/Saint/Gross has been selected as the Lead Campus Master Planner and Architect for Vedanta University, envisioned to be a world-class, multi-discipline university in India. This project will entail the design and development of a state-of-the art education and research institute that will rank among the highest caliber schools internationally - at the level of Harvard, Stanford and Oxford.

This new University will be built around several colleges and ‘Centers of Excellence’ for cross-disciplinary research. The colleges will include Graduate, Post-Graduate, and Doctoral programs in various disciplines. It is aimed to have a globally diversified, high-quality student body, comprising an equal mix of Indian and international students – serving over 100,000 students in the long-term. The campus will house state-of-the-art facilities including a global resource library, research and development parks, student and faculty residences, and an Olympic caliber sports complex. The vision also includes the development of a University township that will evolve with the University and drive local development in the region as an education and research satellite city.

We now present several daigrams from the Vedanta University web pages as well as from their architect’s pages.

Masterplan:

Phase 1 plan:

Campus planning view (as given in their website):

Another view:

View of one of their buildings:

Time Magazine on Anil Agarwal and Vedanta University

2007-05-11T20:17:00.001-07:00

Time Magazine in its recent issue lists Anil Agarwal at number in its list of 12 Powergivers. The others in the list are Angelina Jolie, Rania al-Abdullah, Yu Panglin, Prince Alwaleed bin Talal al-Saud, Sir John Templeton, Li Ka-shing, Pierre & Pam Omidyar, David Rockefeller, Gordon Moore, George Soros, and Bill & Melinda Gates.

Following is an excerpt of what Time says about Mr. Agarwal and Vedanta University.

Cause: University education in India. The London-based mining magnate has pledged $1 billion to establish a world-class, need-blind university in Orissa, eastern India. To be called Vedanta (the name of his mining group), the school will focus on liberal arts, in contrast to India’s many technically oriented schools.

Impact: Vedanta will help address the region’s dearth of university spots, which keeps qualified students from going to high-quality colleges.

It says Vedant University will focus on liberal arts and not like the technical schools in India. What it means probably is that it will not be unidimensional like the IITs were (they are changing), the IIMs are, etc. It does not mean that it will not have disciplines like science, engineering, management etc. In fact Vedanta University’s website lists all these disciplines and my guess is that in their first phase they will have disciplines like Engineering, Management and Medicine (as they recently promised) which are in demand and which will attract paying students.

(Thanks to Jibanendra babu for tipping of about the Time magazine article.)

Lots of pictures of Vedanta University

2007-05-06T08:19:00.000-07:00

Some of the pictures of Vedanta University are in this site. The fuzzy ones were probably extracted from a multi-media presentation made by Vedanta Officials at a very early stage.

Vedanta University Call for tenders

2007-05-06T07:41:00.000-07:00

(pdf version of the picture)

Observation from the ground on Vedanta University

2007-05-05T06:47:00.000-07:00

(From a posting by Purna Mishra in ornet)

Good news from Orissa. Vedanta University is for real.
It will be unlike any other university in India.

The land acquisition is going smoothly. Unlike POSCO and others,
the state government is out of the process. Most of the land is
state government and/or belong to Lord Jagannath. Not much private land.
They have opened an office in Puri to acquire land. It seems their
latest offer is to acquire paddy cultivated land at Rs. 2 lakh/acre.
Before the Vedanta University offer, the land was available at Rs. 60K/acre.

...

Vedanta University CEO replies to queries from OTN (Orissa Today Network)

2007-05-02T08:13:00.000-07:00

On behalf of the Orissa Today Network Mr. Manoj Padhi sent a letter to Vedanta University CEO. Following is the reply from Vedanta’s CEO.

Dear Mr. Manoj Padhi and OTN,

Thank you for your mail dated 8^th April regarding Vedanta University (VU). We are happy to know that OTN, an intellectual Group of Overseas and local Oriya have appreciated the communication on the developments pertaining to the proposed Vedanta University in the State of Orissa.

I am happy to have this opportunity to provide clarifications on some of the points raised by your members.

When Vedanta Chairman thought of this philanthropic act of a magnitude not hitherto known, M/s. AT Kearney & Company was engaged to prepare the concept proposal and several states in India were considered for the potential site. One of the reasons for the final selection of Orissa was the poor development of the State and the huge economic and social impact the University will bring to Orissa. (All of you from Orissa, today living in various parts of the world know that as per the latest statistics from Planning Commission, Orissa is the most backward State in India. Over 40% of the people in Orissa are living below poverty line compared to national average of about 20%).

Regarding the query on land, it was felt vital to create this university on a totally self-sustained basis and not to blame or complain tomorrow regarding non-availability of infrastructure. The campus has to be planned and implemented like the city of Chandigarh and not mushroom / proliferate in a disorganized manner like Kolkata or Mumbai. The long term master plan for the entire university has been prepared by the Architecture firm specialised in university campuses, M/s. Ayers Saint Gross(ASG), Baltimore, USA.

As this will be a research-driven university, there will be huge research parks in the campus to support research in various fields including health sciences, bio-technology, nano-technology, design engineering, public policy, economics, finance, public administration, etc. The University will actively promote this research, and will encourage collaboration with national and international organizations.

The colleges, laboratories, residential complexes, support community, infrastructure, utilities, entertainment, sports and recreation facilities and a lot of open space that are essential for a world-class University atmosphere require the University to have over 7000 acres of land as per the master plan.

Regarding some apprehensions about the land acquisition, it must be noted by all responsible stakeholders that the land is being acquired by Anil Agarwal foundation(AAF), a not for profit institution, and solely for the purpose of setting-up the university and its related facilities and infrastructure etc. This is further ensured by the Government of Orissa through terms of legislation. The construction of the university building is going to start almost immediately based on the overall master plan created by ASG. Therefore there is no need for unnecessary misgiving in this regard.

Regarding the query of multi-location, Vedanta is a research-driven university with investments in not just land and buildings but also in research laboratories, equipment and infrastructure. This needs focus. In the long term, VU will have distance learning and extension learning program centers.

Regarding location (why not western Orissa), VU is not a District level or Regional level institution, it is a world class university in terms of magnitude, students and faculties intended to bring pride to the whole of India. The nature of such an institution is supported by proximity to resources and an enabling environment. Orissa will have the privilege of having it located in the state.

Regarding rehabilitation subject, we wish to clarify that the area proposed for the VU campus is sparsely populated. Given the saline condition of the water body and the land, though it is classified as agricultural land, it is not a fertile land. Every piece of land being acquired for setting up the university will be paid full-market value and there is neither any grant nor concessions by the Government in this matter.

All those displaced shall be offered rehabilitation package in terms of houses or those who don’t opt shall be given cash assistance for self relocation. At least one member of each displaced family shall be provided vocational training to enable him to start own enterprise. The university project construction activities, and the institution itself will generate direct and indirect employment potential in that area which has hitherto not seen any economic activity.

Regarding reservations: We all know that explicit reservations or quotas pose a serious challenge to the aspirations of a world-class university. We are committed to diversity and equal access to higher education for all sections of society. We shall encourage equitable access to Vedanta University by special coaching and training, bridge programs, scholarships and stipends to motivate the local youth and to improve their quality. The University values diversity of all kinds and will also ensure access to higher education for meritorious students regardless of their ability to contribute financially.

In terms of employment, we are now at a very early stage. As far as senior staff, the recruitment is based on relevant qualification, experience and will be from all over India and abroad. Junior staff predominantly will be recruited locally.

As regards, Head Office, Anil Agarwal Foundation is located in Mumbai. At the conceptual and planning stage, the VU Head Office will have to operate in a global city like Mumbai. However, VU Operating Office has already started functioning from Puri, will have a presence in Bhubaneshwar, and will later on shift to the campus itself.

To conclude, we appreciate views and concerns of all of you in this important project in Orissa. We are transparent and open in sharing and providing clarifications to your concerns. In turn, we hope you will become goodwill ambassadors for this transformative development in the State of Orissa to and help to overcome unfounded cynicism.

I am sure your communication is to find answers and not for publicity, and hence we do not see the need to mark copies to third parties.

VU shall build a globally respected research driven university to provide high quality education and creation of knowledge by Indians in India. It is an arduous task with lots of obstacles, but we believe that the goal is clear and noble. With support from all of you, who care for your Motherland, we shall overcome these obstacles and succeed.

With regards,

C.V. Krishnan

CEO, Vedanta University

Forbes in its profile of Anil Agarwal mentions Vedanta University

2007-04-29T10:22:00.000-07:00

The World's Billionaires
#230 Anil Agarwal
03.08.07, 6:00 PM ET

Courtesy Vedanta Resources

Age: 53

Fortune: inherited and growing

Source: mining, metals

Net Worth: $3.8 bil

Country Of Citizenship: India

Residence: London , United Kingdom, Europe & Russia

Industry: Mining/Lumber

Marital Status: married, 2 children

Education:

Chairs $3.7 billion (sales) London-listed metals and mining giant Vedanta Resources; brother Navin is No. 2. Main assets in India, Australia and Zambia. Announced $3.1 billion expansion of capacities. Plans to build Vedanta University, India's answer to Stanford, in eastern India; has pledged $1 billion.

Profiles of Anil Agarwal

2007-04-29T10:10:00.000-07:00

Following Vedanta's purchase of a huge stake in Sesa Goa there have been a few profile articles on its Chairman Mr. Anil Agarwal.

The second article has a brief paragraph on Vedanta University. Following is an excerpt.

Struck by the munificence that created Carnegie Mellon, Harvard, and Stanford, Agarwal wants to do something similar in India. So, he is making an endowment of up to $1 billion (Rs4,435 crore) to establish a “world-class, multi-disciplinary university”. His dream project is called Vedanta University and will be set up in the state of Orissa. AT Kearney is the consultant for the project. Agarwal had told DNA Money: “We (the family) have decided to give our wealth back to society,” he said.

Sambada (in Oriya) : Vedanta University reduces its requirement to 7500 acres

2007-04-18T07:09:00.000-07:00

Statesman: Vedanta to build hospital with proposed university

2007-04-16T15:33:00.000-07:00

Vedanta to build hospital with proposed university

BHUBANESWAR, April 16: Evidently conscious of the eyebrows being raised over his proposed world class varsity across 8,000 acres of land near Puri, Mr Anil Agrawal, head of Sterlite and Vedanta group of industries, today said it will try to tighten things and reduce to required area and will also add a 1,000 bedded hospital cum research institute to the project.

Mr Agrawal, who met chief minister Mr Naveen Patnaik here, said the CM had requested him to consider setting up a super speciality hospital and he had readily agreed to it. The focus will be on cancer and cardiology, he said before stating that it will come up in the first phase of the varsity project.

Asked about land acquisition, he said it would be done as per the usual government process but no specifics were discussed today.

Mr Agrawal said his discussions with the CM also revolved around progress on his aluminum project, power plant etc. “The bauxite for trial production is being transported from Gujarat and we are also mulling on importing till the mining lease which is pending with the central government is disposed,” he noted.

Vedanta will set up a technical institute at Lanjigarh for local people, he informed. It may be noted here that the company has run into problems with regard to the bauxite mines at Niyamgiri hills and the matter has gone to court.SNS

Letter from the Vedanta University project CEO

2007-03-30T06:39:00.001-07:00

29th March 2007

Dear Friend,

We are pleased to share with you, as well wishers of the proposed
Vedanta University in Orissa, the developments to-date and our
objectives in the project. The Vedanta University will be
established in the state of Orissa, along the Puri-Konark highway.

We recall with pride the glorious past when Orissa had Ratnagiri
University, known around the world. With the active support,
encouragement and good wishes from all of you through your
constructive communication in the various blogs, e-mails and
internet communications, we are confident of making Orissa once
again a globally recognised center for higher learning.

Anil Agarwal Foundation, a “not for profit” institution, has been
founded by Mr. Anil Agarwal, Chairman, Vedanta Resources Plc,
London, for making a significant contribution to a core requirement
of India viz. Education.

Anil Agarwal Foundation (AAF) has the vision of creating a
world-class, multidisciplinary university in India, of the quality
of Nalanda, Ratnagiri, Takshila of Ancient India and Harvard,
Stanford and Oxford of today. The new institution will be called
“Vedanta University” to truly reflect the philosophy and pride of
our Country.

The proposed Vedanta University will be an independent,
professionally managed and “Not For Profit” institution based on an
endowment from AAF as seed capital. It will be a Private University
to be set up under an Act of the Orissa State, and will operate on
efficient management principles, generate resources for fuelling
continuous growth in Research and Academics.

Vedanta University will have the following objectives:

1. Create a World standard research driven university where
academics and research will support and benefit from each other.

2. Build a Global scale university with a wide variety of subjects
and specialisations namely arts, sciences, economics, commerce,
education, public administration, communication, law, business
management, engineering, medicine and other professional fields.

3. Offer to all its graduates, irrespective of their specializations
a strong foundation in basic disciplines like liberal arts, basic
sciences, economics, communication, philosophy, behavioural
sciences, mathematics and IT.

4. Provide here and now within the shores of India knowledge based
education to India’s youth, to prepare them as scholars, scientists
and leaders for taking India forward.

5. Provide academic facilities, IT network / library, laboratory and
research facilities, residential and recreation infrastructure which
will make Vedanta University totally self contained like the best
universities in the world.

6. Offer bachelors, masters and research degrees in various
disciplines and offer a unique combination of intensive
specialization as well as extensive cross disciplinary study.

7. Build an organization with most competent faculty for teaching
and research and highly professional non-academic management team.

Vedanta University will promote greater learning and would place
India on the global map of academic and research agenda. It will
develop mechanisms to involve students in research as an integral
part of their learning, and partner with industry in promotion of
new ideas and innovations.

The University will have colleges and schools for various
disciplines, research laboratories & research parks, residential
colonies for students, faculty and staff, complexes for sports,
entertainment & recreation, conference centers, significant open
space to create the right atmosphere inside the campus, transport
and other infrastructure, over an area of 8000 acres. The proposed
university is planned to ultimately have 100,000 students and
corresponding faculty and staff with complete infrastructure.

This will lead to creating a vibrant township. The local population
will immensely benefit by the direct and indirect employment
potential during the project construction phase and subsequent
running of the University. Unlike an industrial project, which gets
constructed over a finite period of 3 / 4 years, the University will
be continuously expanded thus offering sustained employment
opportunity for local population.

The land for the University will be procured at fully priced current
market rates with no subsidy nor grant allocation of land by
Government. The acquisition is getting delayed and this has pushed
back the construction of the project.

We have engaged world-renowned campus planners, US-based Ayers Saint
Gross, to develop a campus master plan. India based STUP consultants
are engaged to do the detailed design for construction and the Phase
- 1 plans are already finalized. We hope that we are able to
progress with commencement of construction soon.

We also need the passage by the Orissa State Assembly of necessary
legislations to establish Vedanta University. We hope this happens
soon enough.

We are extremely passionate about building a philanthropic
institution that will educate tomorrow’s Nobel Laureates, Olympic
athletes, heads of state, civic leaders, and social transformers. We
believe that the university will prove to be a perpetual
contribution to society that will generate global leaders for
centuries to come.

We have launched our website www.vedanta.edu.in
to provide you with more updates. We
request you to visit our site. As a person who is keen to see this
University come up to bring glory to Orissa, you may feel free to
contact me at cv.krishnan@vedanta.edu.in
if you have any advice or
suggestions.

With Regards
*C.V. Krishnan *
*CEO *

Updates: new web page; initial building design; CAO search

2007-03-13T10:06:00.000-07:00

Vedanta University has unveiled a new web page since March 1 2007. It has a nice picture of the location of the university. I am told that the architects of the university have come up with a detailed design of the initial buildings. Also, the CAO search is going well and an announcement in this regard may be made in May 2007.

Chitta

DK Matai on Vedanta University at the Intent blog

2007-02-19T17:20:00.000-08:00

It seems Vedanta University is being discussed at various high profile gatherings. DK Matai's article at the Intentblog (a blog founded by Mallika Chopra, Gotham Chopra, Deepak Chopra and Shekhar Kapur) talks about various aspects of Vedanta University based on his impressions. There are several comments by people who are excited by this university.

Nobel laureates being tapped for proposed Vedanta varsity

2007-02-18T13:07:00.000-08:00

STATES

Nobel laureates being tapped for proposed Vedanta varsity

DILIP BISOI
Posted online: Monday, February 19, 2007 at 0000 hours IST

BHUBANESWAR: The Anil Agarwal Foundation has launched a worldwide search for academics for its proposed Vedanta University in Orissa.

"We are scouting for faculty members for the university. The list includes a few Nobel laureates," said Vednata group vice-president, AK Samal. Some internationally acclaimed academics from Indian diaspora have shown interest, he said.

The Vedanta University will have 10,000 faculty members for one lakh students. Forty thousand non-teaching staff will assist students and faculty members.

The Anil Agarwal Foundation, a trust floated by the family members of Anil Agarwal, chairman of the London-based Vedanta Resources, is proposing to set up a world class university on 10,000 acre at the Puri-Konark marine drive with an investment of Rs 15,000 crore. The foundation has committed $1 billion to start the university, which will have 95 disciplines, including engineering, medical, IT, bio-technology, and molecular neuro-biology.

Samal was here recently to address a seminar on financing higher education organised by the Bhubaneswar Management Forum.

He said the completion of the first phase of the project would be delayed owing to land acquisition problem. The admission process would start from 2009 instead of 2008, as planned earlier, he added.

Samal said without private investment, India would not be able to increase the enrolment level in higher education to 15% from the current level of 7%, as suggested by the National Knowledge Commission.

The country would require another 1,500 universities, which calls for huge investment. The role of the public-private partnership would become crucial in such a scenario, he said. In this context, Samal sought regulatory changes in higher education and said the role of the University Grants Commission and the All India Council for Technical Education should be redefined.

Stae Government Plans for four Way lane Road for Vedanta University: Sambad, 9th Feb 2007

2007-02-09T03:17:00.000-08:00

Vedanta University’s full page ad — A university looking for a city of 500,000

2007-02-01T10:52:00.000-08:00

In today’s Samaja there is a full page ad by Vedanta University where it talks about the vision of Vedanta University.

While some people in Orissa are questioning the need of 8000 acres by Vedanta, a more enlightened Andhra Pradesh is actually spending its own money to create a similar city. In comparison, Orissa is getting $1 billion from Anil Agarwal foundation which they will use to establish the $3 billion (the other $2 billion probably comes from the development around the university) Vedanta University and the surrounding city. (Note that the land that is being acquired for this purpose is not for free; Vedanta University is paying for it, not the Orissa state government.)

Pioneer: State Govt firm on setting up of university

2007-02-01T10:51:00.000-08:00

State Govt firm on setting up of university

Pioneer News Service | Puri

...Union Minister sympathises with anti-Vedanta Varsity villagers

Even as the residents of 22 villages are resisting the move for acquisition of 8,000 acres of their agricultural lands for establishment of the proposed Vedanta University near Puri, the Opposition parties, particularly the Congress, are trying their best to cash in over the people's wrath in the in forthcoming panchayat elections beginning from February 13.

However, the State Government is firm on its decision on setting up of the university and going ahead with the process of land acquisition by issuing notices to the villagers. The villagers, in their turn, have been refusing to receive the notices from the officials of district administration.

The highest amount of 1,240 acres of land is being proposed which is to be acquired in village Beladala near Puri town.

In the latest political move, the Congress organised a visit of Union Minister of State for Human Resource Development Mohammed Ali Asraf Fatimi to some villages to be affected by establishment of the university.

Fatimi, who officially came to review the working of the midday meal programme in schools, also chose to visit some villages where the Government has initiated the land acquisition process for the university. He met the agitating villagers and discussed the issue with them.

On his return to Puri, Fatimi made a statement opposing the establishment of the university. He argued that as many as 25 big universities could have been set up on those lands proposed to be acquired for the Vedanta University. He expressed his surprise that his Ministry has no information regarding establishment of such a big university.

He commented that at a time when the Orissa Government is unable to provide only 500 acres of land for establishment of a new Indian Institute of Technology in the State, it is going ahead with a proposal for setting up of a university on 8,000 acres of land.

The State has also not sought permission or clearance from the Union Ministry of Forest and Environment for establishment of the university.

Vedanta University First Phase in 2009

2007-01-06T17:13:00.000-08:00

Vedanta assures rehab package

Pioneer News Service \| Puri
University's first phase in 2009 The Vedanta group would see that every family before its displacement gets a suitable and better living conditions along with employment for one of its members in the proposed Vedanta University project, said Ajit Kumar Samal, vice-president of the project at a meet-the-Press programme organised by the Puri Press Club on Saturday.

The willing and educated persons of about 80 families, likely to be displaced, would be imparted capacity building training to absorb them in the project.

"We are ready to provide compensation amount as soon as the Government appoints a committee to fix the quantum," Samal said, adding, "We have given over Rs 5 crore to the Puri district administration for initial work."

Replying to a question, he said the university would generate tremendous employment opportunities and business scope for the people of Puri.

The first phase of the project would begin in the 2009 academic session with 3,500 students, and by the end of this decade the university would be complete in all respects with facility for one lakh resident students, Samal said.

Over 50 per cent of the seats in various faculties would be filled up by meritorious Indian students.

Meritorious and outstanding students would be accommodated even if they are unable to afford the fees, he said, adding the university would maintain international standard in various subjects, right from agriculture and research to genetic engineering.

The university would also have facilities for research in pharma and allied sector. It would nurture sportspersons and games through its ultramodern stadium and sporting facility. The international standard teaching would help create Nobel laureates, he added.

Vedanta University Job Adv: Provost and Chief Academic Officer

2007-01-04T03:09:00.000-08:00

Position: Provost and Chief Academic Officer
Salary: Unspecified
Institution: Vedanta University
Location: India
Date posted: 1/1/2007

PROVOST AND CHIEF ACADEMIC OFFICER

Vedanta University

Vedanta University is an ambitious project to create India's first world-class comprehensive research-driven university dedicated to preparing talented leadership in Arts, Sciences, Economics, Engineering, Medicine, Law, Politics, Education, Social Sciences, Agriculture and other professional fields. Supported by an endowment gift of up to $1 billion from Anil Agarwal, Chairman of Vedanta Resources Plc, Vedanta University aspires to be of the caliber of world-class universities like Harvard, Stanford, and Oxford. Vedanta University aims to energize the intellectual life of India, build a cadre of principled leaders to serve the nation, offer world-class opportunity to native and international students, and enable the educational resources that will ensure India's position as a major world player and knowledge producer.

Vedanta will offer bachelor's, graduate, post-graduate and doctoral programs with world-renowned faculty driving the academic and research agenda with a commitment to pioneering pedagogy, cross-disciplinary study, need-blind admissions, unparalleled access to information, indigenous leadership, and world-class diversified scholarship. Vedanta University expects to begin enrolling students in 2008 with the campus development proceeding in accordance with a phased-in process, with a planned completion date of 2025.

Vedanta University will be located on a scenic 8,000 acre campus in the eastern state of Orissa, along the Bay of Bengal. The government of Orissa has committed full support to Vedanta University, sharing the vision of creating an academic center that will be among the best in the world and the first such university in India. The prominent Baltimore architectural firm of Ayers Saint Gross has been hired to design the campus master plan and develop architectural guidelines.

The Provost and Chief Academic Officer (CAO) is the first academic position to be filled in the creation of Vedanta University. This position will be the key driver in the development and implementation of the academic program over the next two to three years. The CAO will provide leadership, vision and coordination for all academic planning and activities. He or she will be responsible for developing the core academic plan, which will include sequencing of schools and programs, overseeing creation of curriculum, establishing and implementing the timetable for hiring deans and faculty and recruiting students for a 2008 start date, developing strategies for attracting a global permanent and visiting faculty, determining academic governance policies, and ensuring the provision of appropriate academic resources. The CAO will be expected to recruit his or her own staff and bring on board the necessary consulting resources to move the initial agenda forward.

The CAO will be an academic leader of vision, intellectual breadth, recognized accomplishment, and reputation with the academic planning skills needed to implement the vision of a world-class research-intensive multidisciplinary private university for the 21st century from the ground up. The successful candidate will be a creative and strategic thinker with a bold and adventuresome spirit that is drawn to the creation of a new enterprise. He or she will likely have some previous experience in the creation of an academic center, school, campus, or other entrepreneurial venture. The CAO will have experience working within a research university based on the American or British model and understand the needs and drivers of high-quality research. The CAO must be of sufficient stature to attract high quality faculty to teach and do research. It is important for the individual to have a sophisticated understanding of Indian mores and to have spent some time in India.

Nominations, inquiries, or a letter of application accompanied by a curriculum vitae and the names of five references, should be directed electronically in confidence to:

Kim M. Morrisson, Ph.D., or Gerard F. Cattie, Jr., Managing Directors or
Ian McCray, Vice President and Senior Associate
Diversified Search Ray & Berndtson
One Commerce Square, 2005 Market Street, Suite 3400, Philadelphia, PA 19103
E-mail: Vedanta-CAO@divsearch.com
Tel: 215-656-3596

Inquiries in the United Kingdom can be addressed to Alexander Acland (alex.acland@odgers.com), Odgers Ray & Berndtson, 11 Hanover Square, London W1S 1JJ.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contact Information:

E-mail : vedanta-cao@divsearch.com
Phone : 215-656-3596
Kim Morrisson, Ph.D.
Managing Director
Diversified Search Ray & Berndtson
One Commerce Square
2005 Market Street, Suite 3400
Philadelphia, PA 19103

Vedanta looking for alternative sites?

2006-12-16T15:27:00.000-08:00

Institutes join realty boom

SANJAY JOG & MONA MEHTA

Posted online: Sunday, December 17, 2006 at 0006 hours IST

MUMBAI, DEC 16 : Various education trusts and institutes have launched ambitious real estate development plans covering land of 500 acres to 3 lakh sq ft.

The Vedanta group, which has entered into an agreement with the Orissa government for the development of a $1 billion university project, has shortlisted Chennai, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Pune and Ahmedabad for the acquisition of 4,000 acres of land to develop a Harvard-like institute.

Bharati Vidyapith and Symbiosis have acquired over 300 acres of land each. Mumbai Education Trust plans to develop an international school and colleges on property spread over 200 acres in Nashik. Mumbai’s Somaiya Trust is close to acquiring 300 acres in Delhi.

Said Niranjan Hiranandani, MD, Hiranandani Constructions, “This is a welcome trend, whereby trusts can acquire land to build their own properties.”

A trust affiliated to a veteran politician from Pune, in a bid to escape legal barriers, has formed a special purpose vehicle to develop 1,500 acres of land in Pune.

Somaiya Trust, which runs a polytechnic and engineering college in Mumbai, would also buy over 600 acres in Hardwar and Rishikesh for setting up technical institutes.

Sameer Bhujbal, trustee of Mumbai Education Trust, told FE: “The trust has recently developed an education complex on 34 acres in Nashik and it is in the midst of developing another complex on over 200 acres in Nashik.”

Sambada on Vedanta Land aquisition (10/22/06)

2006-10-23T23:12:00.000-07:00

http://chitta.googlepages.com/20061022sambadavedantalandaquisition.pdf

Tathya.in on some issues that need to be resolved

2006-10-18T20:16:00.000-07:00

Bhubaneswar:18/October/2006
Can the much-hyped Vedanta University proposal become a reality?

The Government of Orissa on July 19 signed a MOU with the Vedanta Foundation for setting up an international standard multi disciplinary university in the state.

This is not all, the Government has also announced that it has demarcated 8,000 acre of land near Puri-Konark marine drive for the Vedanta University.

The Vedanta, on its part, has also announced that the university would be set up at the investment of Rs 15,000 crore, which is certainly unique in the world.

The MOU says that the Vedanta Foundation has sought for at least 10,000 acre of land for making provisions for at least one lakh students.

The Government has agreed to provide 8,000 acre of land free of cost to the Foundation within three months, the deadline of which was completed on October 18. (Today)

Sources said that the Government has utterly failed to meet the deadline because of technical reasons.

Investigations carried out by the tathya.in revealed that the State Government cannot provide land to Vedanta Foundation because the MoU was signed with a private company.

“Had there been a MOU with and society, foundation or trust, the Government could have given the land.

But in this case, the MOU is between the Government and the Vedanta Foundation, which is a private company,” said a senior officer.

He said that though it appears that Vedanta Foundation is a “Foundation”, in fact, it is a private company registered under the Companies Act-1956.

According to the law, the Government directly cannot give land to any company.

Because the Government only can give land for public purpose to a trust or a society.

Any company has to apply for a piece of land to the IDCO for the industrial purpose.

The proposed university came to the fore when it was revealed that the IDCO cannot give land to any private body for setting up educational institutions.

This is because an educational institution is not an “Industry”.

Double trouble for Vedanta foundation is that without the University Grant’s Commission of India (UGC)’s approval it has used a name called “Vedanta University.”

The UGC has put clear restriction on the use of word— “University” by any one including a private company like Vedanta Foundation.

If any body uses it then he has to give fine as it is an offence as per UGC Act.

An institution can be only being recognized as a University, once the institution receives clearance as per the UGC guidelines.

In this scenario State Government has landed up in a fix and top mandarins are burning mid night oil to regale out of the situation.

Vedanta University advertisement on the day of MOU

2006-10-10T22:24:00.000-07:00

Job Openings at Vedanta University

2006-10-10T21:31:00.000-07:00

A not-for-profit initiative of Anil Agarwal Foundation, is an epoch-making dream to create a pre-eminent learning centre.

Designation	Multiple Vacancies
Job Description	Multiple Vacancies
Desired Profile	Head Projects: Graduate Engineer, from a reputed institute with about 15 years of experience in large scale greenfield projects. Chief Architect: Graduate Architect from an institute of repute with about 15 years hands-on experience with leading architectural firms. Head - Admin & Estate management: Post Graduate degree in humanities / businss management from an institute of repute Human Capital Manager: Post Graduate degree in human resource management from a premier institute with around 12 years of experience with large institutions in handlinfg entire HR functions. Lead Resource - Commercial: Engineering graduate from an institute of repute with around 12 years of experience in a large corporate. MBA degree is preferred. Manager - Utilities: Mechanical / Electrical Engineer from a reputed institutionwith around 12 years of expereince in large-scale project execution, preferably from owner side. PR & Community Relations Manager: Post Graduation in Mass Communication / Journalism / PR / Social Work with around 12 years relevant experience in a large corporate.
Experience	12 - 15
Industry Type	Education / Training / Teaching
Functional Area	Other
Education	UG - Any Graduate - Any Specialization PG - Any PG Course - Any Specialization
Location	Bhubaneshwar
Keywords	Engineer, Admin & Estate management, human resource management, MBA
Contact
Job Posted	29 Sep' 2006
Reference	04153excel250906

Anil Agarwal meets Naveen and discusses Vedanta University

2006-09-26T14:20:00.000-07:00

Pioneer News Service | Bhubaneswar

Chairman of the Vedanta Group Anil Agarwal on Tuesday met Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik at the State Secretariat and discussed about its proposed Vedanta University.

After the meeting, Agarwal said the proposed university would come up this year near the Konark-Puri marine drive. At the time of admission, Oriya candidates will be given preference, he added.

It may be noted that the proposed project would come up at an investment of Rs 15,000 crore. The university and its campus will be set up on 10,000 acre of land.

On being asked whether he had any discussion about its Lanjigraha Alumina project with the Chief Minister, Agarwal said he had discussed various issues with him.

He further said he did not final any opposition to his project at Lanjigarha and people at large are supporting the alumina project.

Vedanta University Crosses Hurdle

2006-09-21T06:16:00.000-07:00

Vedanta University Crosses Hurdle
Bhubaneswar:20/September/2006Now it seems that Vedanta Foundation, which has proposed to set up a world class university in Orissa has crossed the first hurdle. Government of Orissa in a major paradigm shift in higher education sector has decided to go for a new act to facilitate private sector in setting up universities. This was decided at a high level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on September 20 here. Legal Pundits were objecting to the proposal fall flat at the Supreme Court's decision to allow private parties to set up centre for higher learning. Higher education sector in Orissa is facing acute financial crisis and the State Government is not in a position to invest in this area out of its own coffer. A Bill will be piloted in the November session of the Orissa Legislative Assembly in this regard,said official sources. Passage of the Bill will pave the way for Vedanta Foundation to set up its university in Orissa. Vedanta Resources will be investing Rs.10,000 crore for an university at par with Stanford University. According to sources at least 8000 acres have been identified in Puri-Konark marine area. Earlier the Institute of Chartered Financial Analysis of India (ICFAI)has also evinced interest to set up its university in Orissa. But ICFAI hit the road block due to legal warnglings over the private university issue. It has been decided to draft the Bill by Higher Education department, which will be vetted by Law department. According to sources only Societies and Trusts will be able to float universities in the state. Earlier to facilitate ICFAI, Government of Orissa tabled a Bill the Assembly in 2003, which collapsed. And now the Government has decided to effect certain changes in the Bill and table it in the next session during November.

Vedanta officials were visiting US campuses

2006-08-26T16:38:00.000-07:00

Couple of weeks back one of the Vedanta official of Orissa origin (possibly with others from Vedanta) was visiting various US campuses. They came to Phoenix, AZ but by the time I came to know about it they had already left. They visited Phoenix to see either Arizona State University in Tempe or University of Arizona at Tucson or both. Apparantly the climate of Arizona and its landscape has some similarity with the climate of Balighai (near Puri). They both are very hot in the summer; the winter temeprature of Phoenix is slightly lower than that of Balighai. In Phoenix the temperature hardly ever goes below freezing and is very pleasant in the winter. (It is very hot in the summer.)

Landscapewise Phoenix and Tucson have a lot of palm trees. The Phoenix area has a lot of lakes. One of the images in the Vedanta university flash presentation (2 min 18 sec from the start) is similar to the Palm walk of Arizona State University. Stanford also has a palm drive, but it looks quite different.

Mail from a reader

2006-08-10T12:49:00.000-07:00

Hello Mr. Baral,

Please refer to this link which describes how Orissa managed to get the MOU for Vedanta signedin face of stiff competition .
http://www.andhracafe.com/index.php?m=show&id=4369

'Vedanta University' on the lines of Stanford, Harvard and Oxford, being promoted by UK-based NRI industrialist Anil Agarwal might take its root in the State.

Experts views Hyderabad as a definite high-potential candidate for the location of the world-class university.

Talks with the AP, Maharashtra and Rajasthan governments had already been done and officials from Vedanta is in the process of talking to Karnataka and Goa. A final decision on the location is to be taken by April this year.

The 'not-for-profit' Vedanta University will strive to impart world-class education and drive a cutting-edge research agenda, with an envisaged student population of more than 100,000.

The university would also aim to nurture all-round excellence, beyond the academic dimension, to produce tomorrow's Nobel laureates, Olympic champions and community leaders.

The vision implies spawning of an education and research township, around the university in a manner similar to Stanford University.

Vedanta Resources is a leading diversified metals and mining group with operations in India, Australia and Zambia. The group has an annual turnover of $ 4 billion.

The above article shows that practically every state in India wanted this university to be a set up in their state. We have got this university as a masterstroke. I think as a state we should learn to take opportunity when it knocks on our doorsteps.

I would appreciate if you publish my letter in your Vedanta university blog.

Thanks & Regards
Umashankar Das

A message from an Oriya Scientist (published with permission)

2006-08-07T22:01:00.000-07:00

Professor Chitta Baral,

Department of Computer Science & Engineering,

Ira A Fulton School of Engineering,

Arizona State University,

USA.

Dear Prof. Baral,

I am delighted to know that establishment of a World Class University named Vedant University has been proposed by Anil Agarwal Foundation at Konark- Puri marine drive with active support of Govt. of Orissa. Being an Oriya I feel very proud for the proposal. As I understand Rs. 15,000 crores will be spent over the years for setting up the Vedant University, however, the quality of the Faculty which makes any University proud off are very scarce in this country. Therefor every care should be taken for recruiting knowledgeable Faculties and bright students to make vision of the founders for a true World class University. I shall highly appreciate to know more about the proposed University.

With regards,

Yours sincerely,

Dr. T. N. Naik, MVSc Microbiology (GBPUAT, Pantnagar) PG Dig. Virology (Glasgow) Cert. Immunology (London) PhD Virology (Surrey)
Deputy Director (Sr. Grade) & Head,
Division of Virology,
National Institute of Cholera & Enteric Diseases,

INDIAN COUNCIL OF MEDICAL RESEARCH,
P-33, CIT Road Scheme XM,
Beliaghata,
Kolkata-700010,
West Bengal,
India.

Some universities with large acerage

2006-08-05T17:14:00.000-07:00

University of Michigan: 20,965 acres total (out of which 3176 acres in suburban area)

Texas A & M University: 5200 acres total

$1-billion pledge was made by the donor rather than his business.

2006-08-04T16:43:00.000-07:00

July 25, 2006

Flap Arises Over Donation to Indian University

Opponents of a $1-billion plan to establish a new university in India say the donor, the businessman Anil Agarwal, has pledged the money in an attempt to divert attention from his allegedly corrupt mining deal, reports The Chronicle of Higher Education.

“He wants to deflect criticism of his deal with the government to mine bauxite ore on terms that are much below market value,” said Srikant Jena, a senior member of the Congress Party, the main opposition party in Orissa, where the university will be built. “He is trying to gain recognition as a do-gooder so that the scam can be covered up.”

A spokesman for Vedanta University, named after Mr. Agarwal’s company, Vedanta Resources, declined to comment on the specifics of the accusations, saying that the $1-billion pledge was made by the donor rather than his business.

Vedanta University ad for Chief Academic Officer

2006-08-04T16:37:00.000-07:00

In http://chronicle.com/jobs/print.php?id=0000467109-01
of Chronicle of Higher Education.

Position: Chief Academic Officer
Institution: Vedanta University
Location: India
Date posted: 7/28/2006

Vedanta University
Rewrite the history of academia

Lead India to the forefront of academic excellence as the

Chief Academic Officer

of the Vedanta University

With a land area of over 8000 acres, the Vedanta University campus is located in a picturesque setting on the eastern coast of India along the Bay of Bengal. Liberal Arts, Basic Sciences, Engineering, Law, Management, Communications, Architecture, Medicine and Performing Arts are the core disciplines that will be introduced in a phased manner after the commencement of the University in July 2008. The university has a very strong research focus with special emphasis on cross disciplinary research in areas such as Agricultural Research, Information & Communication Technology, Health Sciences, Rural Economics and Manufacturing Sciences.

An initial endowment of $1 Billion for this not-for-profit university has been committed by Mr. Anil Agarwal, Chairman of Vedanta Resources Plc. The university has an independent board of trustees which confers complete managerial, financial, and academic autonomy to the University administration.

Ayers Saint Gross, the internationally renowned Architectural firm based in Baltimore, MD, have been hired to design the master plan and architectural guidelines for the campus. The first phase of this state-of-the-art campus and world class township (for both students and faculty) is expected to be ready by January 2008. The trustees of the Vedanta University Foundation are currently in the process of hiring experienced University administrators and academicians to form the core management team of the institute.

Reporting directly to the President and the Board of Trustees, the Chief Academic Officer provides leadership, vision, and coordination for all aspects of Academic Affairs. His/Her responsibilities will include determining core academic agenda, faculty size, roles and responsibilities, recruitment strategy and governing policies. One of the initial challenges for the CAO will be to hire the core set of individuals who will go on to become the deans of the various schools. He/She will be expected to articulate approaches to research and work closely to ensure that the academic vision of the university is coordinated with the campus plan and architecture.

Candidate Profile: 10-15 years of experience at a top tier university in the US or UK and working at a senior level administrative position (President, Provost, CFO, Dean, etc). India related experience would be useful.

For further information please visit www.vedanta.edu.in.

Please send a resume and cover letter by August 28th, 2006 to careers@vedanta.edu.in.

Categories: Chief academic officers/vice presidents, Provosts

Contact Information:

E-mail : careers@vedanta.edu.in
Web Site : www.vedanta.edu.in

New items added to the side link bars

2006-08-04T16:34:00.000-07:00

In case you may not have noticed, we have
added links to the Vedanta University web site and
the shockwave and power point presentations about the
university in the left hand side bar. Thanks to Prof. Sanjoy Das
for discovering these links.

cheers
Chitta

Prof. Kishore Chandra Tripathy in support of Vedanta University (Samaja, in Oriya)

2006-08-04T16:19:00.000-07:00

http://chitta.googlepages.com/2006-aug5-samaja-supporting-vedanta-univ-prof-kishore-chandra-tripathy.pdf

Laxman Mohapatra in Samaja (in Oriya)

2006-08-02T13:12:00.000-07:00

http://chitta.googlepages.com/2006-aug3-samaja-vedanta-laxman-mohapatra.pdf

He supports Vedanta University and suggests that top educationalists such as Prof. Amartya Sen, Prof. Yogesh Pati and Prof. C. N. R. Rao should be invited to help chart the course of this university.

cheers
Chitta

Large does not mean low quality

2006-07-31T08:53:00.000-07:00

Today in Sambada the vice chancellor of Sambalpur University criticizes Vedanta's aspiration to have 100,000 students and says that such a large body of students will lead to lower quality and make it more like a trade school. (IN ORIYA)

That is of course a possibility, but if Vedanta University sticks to its goal of having the quality of Harvard/Stanford/Oxford/Cambridge then just aiming for 100,000 students will not make it a trade school.

As an example consider the following large universities in the US:

Arizona State University, Main Campus	51,612
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities	51,175
The Ohio State University	50,504
University of Texas, Austin	49,696
University of Florida	49,693
Michigan State University	45,166
Texas A&M University, College Station	44,910
University of Illinois, Urbana	41,862
University of Wisconsin, Madison	41,447
Pennsylvania State University, University Park	40,709

All of the above are quite good universities and most are better
than any existing university or other institutions (such as IITs or IISc) in Asia. Most of them have nobel prize winners. Among them the University of Texas at Austin which has 50,000 students is ranked 15th best university in the world.

If Vedanta can be like any of the above university then that would be great for Orissa and India. Finally, I do not think Vedanta is planning to have 100,000 students immediately or even in 5 years. Its goal is to reach its maximum size in 2025. I think by that time a couple of the above universities, especially Arizona State University (the university I work at) will have 100,000 students.

Dr. Ganeshwar Das's editorial in Samaja (in Oriya)

2006-07-31T08:18:00.000-07:00

Vedanta University and higher education (in Oriya)

Issues raised by ex-union Cabinet minister Srikanta Jena and response to them: Financial Express

2006-07-30T20:27:00.000-07:00

=======================================
Vedanta’s alumina deal intensifies duel in Orissa

Union minister Srikanta Jena wrote a letter to the chief minister alleging the deal would result in a loss of Rs 50,000 cr to the exchequer

DILIP BISOI

Posted online: Monday, July 31, 2006 at 0000 hours IST

BHUBANESWAR: An interesting duel between the Naveen Patnaik government and former Union minister and Congress leader, Srikanta Jena, is going on over Vedanta Resources’ 1.4 million tonne alumina project in Kalahandi’s Lanjigarh. While Jena smells a stink in the deal, the BJD-BJP government asserts that the deal is as transparent as ever.

It was Anil Agarwal’s announcement of setting up a world class university, Vedanta University, in the state early this month that prompted Jena into action. At a press conference, he said the proposed university was a ploy to divert the attention of the people from the murky deal between Patnaik and Agarwal on the Lanjigarh refinery project.

Pitching for Patnaik in the battle, state steel and mines minister, Padmanabha Behera, issued an official release which said “the Congress always tries to divert the attention of the people of Orissa whenever the state government takes progressive steps for establishment of projects for the greater interest of the state.”

The duel became bitter last week when Jena shot off a letter to Patnaik alleging that the deal would result in a loss of Rs 50,000 crore to the exchequer. Disapproving the government’s signing of the agreement with Vedanta Aluminium Ltd (VAL) unilaterally, Jena suggested that Orissa Mining Corporation (OMC) could have gone for the global tender route for exploitation of bauxite mines. He questioned the rate at which bauxite will be available to VAL for the Lanjigarh project.

Behera, a simple tribal leader from Phulbani district, showed his grit and slapped a reply. Reminding Jena that the deal with VAL (Sterlite Industries Ltd) was signed during the Congress regime in 1997, he questioned why the then JB Patnaik government did not opt for the global tender route to select a partner for OMC. “Our government has decided to keep the mines with OMC against the Congress government’s plan to transfer the entire mine to VAL”, he pointed out.

Countering Jena’s allegation that OMC, which is selling iron ore and chromite through tender route, is maintaining double standards when it comes to bauxite sale, Behera said the market dynamics of bauxite were quite different from iron ore and chromite. Nowhere in India do the alumina/aluninium industries purchase bauxite through the tendering process. Grant of bauxite mines is the normal practice in the country as in the case of Nalco in Orissa, Hindalco in Uttar Pradesh, and Balco in Chhattisgarh. “The bauxite raised by the OMC-VAL joint venture company shall be purchased by Vedanta by paying OMC an amount which will comprise raising cost, royalty payable to the government of Orissa, consideration money equivalent to royalty, and dividend on its 26% free equity, besides any other statutory dues”, he clarified.

As the duel goes rages, clearly, the last word on the deal is yet to come.

==================================================

Chitta's note:

I think most of the issues raised by Mr. Srikanta Jena have been adequately addressed in 2004 in the documents
http://vedantauniv.blogspot.com/2006/07/press-release-dated-oct-192004-by.html
and
http://vedantauniv.blogspot.com/2006/07/council-of-ministers-confirms-decision.html

Stanford Daily on Vedanta

2006-07-27T06:53:00.001-07:00

New Indian university modeled after Stanford

July 27, 2006
By Georgia Wells

Modeling after Leland Stanford himself, Anil Agarwal of Vedanta Resources, a metals and mining company in India, has made the largest ever donation granted to a single educational institution anywhere in the world.

With his $1 billion donation, Agarwal established Vedanta University in the Indian state of Orissa. The money, according to Agarwal as quoted in The Chronicle of Higher Education, is set to create a large, multidisciplinary research university resembling Stanford’s “economic hub” style in Silicon Valley.

India’s state-run educational system has long been criticized for using outdated approaches, like rote learning. In the 2004-05 school year, more than 80,000 Indian students entered American universities, according to the Institute of International Education. But with an expected enrollment of over 100,000, beginning with the first class in 2008, Vedanta University may soon attract many of the students who previously left India for foreign universities.

A google search on Vedanta University related news

2006-07-26T21:02:00.000-07:00

Major Private Gifts to Higher Education Since 1967

http://www.navhindtimes.com/articles.php?Story_ID=07227

http://ia.rediff.com/money/2006/feb/16ved.htm

http://www.businessworldindia.com/issue/show.asp?id=2271

http://www.blonnet.com/2006/07/22/stories/2006072202171900.htm

http://www.sulekha.com/news/newsitem.aspx?cid=454627

http://www.indianexpress.com/sunday/story/2713.html

http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/articleshow/1767838.cms

http://in.news.yahoo.com/060720/211/661hg.html

http://www.ibnlive.com/news/topnotch-univ-to-come-up-in-orissa/16190-3.html

http://www.ibnlive.com/videos/16190/topnotch-univ-to-come-up-in-orissa.html

http://onlypunjab.com/fullstory2k5-insight-news-status-30-newsID-85563.html

http://philanthropy.com/news/article/278/1-billion-donation

http://www.deanstalk.net/deanstalk/2006/07/largest_donatio.html

Congress complaining about deals with Vedanta

2006-07-26T19:27:00.000-07:00

The following newspaper items mentions Congress leaders complaining about Orissa governments deal with Vedanta.

(i) Samaja, July 25th 2006
(ii) Sambada, July 26th 2006
(iii) Samaja, July 26th 2006

I think they are raising the same issue they raised two years back. So the response from the government two years back (see [1] and [2]) is still valid.

Congress and other opposition parties should not oppose developements in Orissa just for opposition sake. They should channelize their energey for positive things. For example, they could demand that Vedanta should establish some health centers in other locations in Orissa. Vedanta's medical school will need to do that anyway and Congress can then get some mileage out of it.

Baltimore architects hired to design new Indian university

2006-07-25T11:28:00.000-07:00

Baltimore architecture firm Ayers Saint Gross has been selected to design the campus of a new university in eastern India that is being funded with a billion-dollar gift from an Indian businessman.

The university is being funded by Anil Agarwal, chairman of metals and mining company Vedanta Resources Plc. In a statement issued Tuesday, Adam Gross, principal in charge of Ayers Saint Gross, compared Agarwal's donation to the founding of major American universities such as Stanford and Carnegie Mellon by the business tycoons of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Unlike many Indian institutions, which focus on technical skills, Vedanta University will emulate comprehensive American universities with programs in liberal arts, science, engineering, medicine, law, business and performing arts.

"India has the potential to be a global leader in business, technology, science, performing arts and sports," Agarwal said in the statement. The new university "will make global standards of educational excellence more accessible to the future generations of our country."

Ayers Saint Gross, which specializes in architecture for college campuses, has performed planning work for universities including University of Virginia, Duke, Johns Hopkins, Emory and Carnegie Mellon.

The university plans to start enrolling students in 2008. It is to be located on 8,000 acres of land in the state of Orissa, near Bhubaneswar, that state's capital.

The Financial Times of London reported July 22 that the university is envisoned to include 100,000 students and a 40,000 person college town. Agarwal divides his time between London and India, the newspaper said.

Some details on Vedanta University

2006-07-25T10:31:00.000-07:00

Billion-dollar dream

Tarun Narayan / Mumbai July 26, 2006

NEW PROJECT: The Sterlite-group’s Vedanta university education project will invite venture capital funds and angel investors to fund new ideas.

The $1 billion (around Rs 4,700 crore) investment-laden Vedanta University will bring in Angel Investors and Venture Capitalists to fund innovative ideas and research outputs that would emerge from the university.

On completion, it would be a pointer to VC funds finding their way into the education sector. An “entrepreneurial incubatory” or research park will also be set up to drive entrepreneurship whereby initial seed capital and infrastructure will act as a trigger for launching start-ups.

Not just that. To bring the university in league with the likes of Oxford and Harvard universities, the academia will have five to eight faculties of international repute leading its ‘Centres of Excellence’. Some of the premium academic talent from India and overseas will be hired as deans of colleges and heads of faculty departments.

The university has also drawn up an organisational structure to operationalise some of its goals.

At the highest level, for instance, there will be a board of trustees for university foundation that will comprise leaders from industry and society. They will be followed by University Leadership Team that will comprise of President & Provost. This in turn will be followed by heads and deans of schools and colleges who would then have a faculty pool under them.

Several alliances are planned with other campuses so that it facilitates exchange of ideas, research and teaching practices. Says M.Siddiqi, Project Director, Vedanta University, “The University will confer degrees in all streams: engineering, medical and management.”

The 10,000 acres of real estate in the Konark-Puri Marine Drive in Orissa where the university will be located has been identified based on criterions like nearness to airport, water body, and other factors like –tucked away from city yet not too far from the city– so that the spot has easy accessibility.

Recently, the university signed an MoU with the Orissa Government. The other “first” to this mega-endeavour being that the 1 billion dollar endowment is the highest ever endowment to have been given by any private individual in the entire world, that too for setting up a university. “The objective is to produce leaders in diverse fields: politics, olympians et al,” says Siddiqi.

Even the eco-system will be created with this objective in mind. Apart from a Olympic-calibre sports complex that has been talked about, there will also be a township on international lines that will have primary and secondary schools, theaters, cinemas, restaurants and book stores.

“Globally whether it is scientists, space-researchers or any other profession, at least 10 per cent faculty are Indians. At least 3 billion dollar goes out of India in the area of education. The focus of this University is to contain this outflow by providing a set up which can compare itself with the world.

If Indians can learn in some of those overseas universities why not create one ourselves?,” he asks. While benchmarking with overseas universities, master planners will look at factors like climatic conditions for instance, and this will be used in the master planning.

“In Oxford, for example, you can have study groups sitting in lawns, in India you can’t have that as it is too hot. Our master planning will be in lines with the likes of University of Arizona where the climate is more or less like India.” affirms Siddiqi.

M/S ASG from USA have been appointed Master planner. They are one of the top three campus master planners of the world. Here then is an academic venture that claims to be a front-runner right at the concept phase.

Press release dated Oct 19,2004 by Orissa Mining Corporation Ltd.

2006-07-24T18:39:00.000-07:00

From Google cache:
http://72.14.207.104/search?q=cache:f2u1yYFwUZgJ:orissa.gov.in/news/october/191004/191004.pdf+Press+release+Orissa+Mining+Vedanta&hl=or&gl=us&ct=clnk&cd=18

Press release dated Oct 19,2004 by Orissa Mining Corporation Ltd.

AGREEMENT OF OMC WITH M/S. VEDANTA ALUMINA
LIMITED IN THE BEST INTEREST OF THE STATE.

Govt. of Orissa decided in March, 1997 to develop the bauxite
deposits in Lanjigarh and Karlapat and a MoU with Sterlite Industries Ltd.
was executed during April, 1997 by OMC. After successful negotiation with
Sterlite for setting up an integrated aluminium project consisting of 1 million
tonne Alumina & 2.2 lakh tonne of Aluminium per year, the MoU was
converted into an agreement with M/s. Vedanta Alumina Ltd ( the arm of
M/s. Sterlite Industries for bauxite / Alumina Projects ) on October 5 , 2004
for the Lanjigarh deposit after obtaining due approvals. Govt. of India has
also approved the mining lease for the Lanjigarh bauxite deposits in favour
of OMC after being fully informed of the terms and conditions of the above
agreement.

In this regard a number of misleading, concocted and baseless news
reports have appeared in the press on which OMC wishes to clarify as under:
In order to set up an integrated aluminium project, a mining lease of
Bauxite is an essential requirement, grant of which is the normal practice in
the country which can be seen from the cases of NALCO in Orissa,
HINDALCO in U.P. and BALCO in Chhatisgarh. The MoU of 1997,
envisaged clearly the transfer of the mining lease to M/s. Sterlite. The
amendment to rule 37(2) of Mineral Concession Rules of the Govt of India,
prohibits a PSU to charge or accept any consideration on per tonne basis in
respect of a mining lease transferred to another party. Since the original
MoU was providing for payment of consideration money to OMC which
was not possible after the amendment to the Mineral Concession Rules,
OMC protected its interest by not transferring the lease to M/s.VAL as
required under the MoU and insisted upon by Vedanta. Had the transfer of
lease been done as per the 1997 MoU, OMC would not have received any
consideration on per tonne basis from Vedanta Alumina and thereby lost
around Rs.675 crores which has been checked as a result of this agreement.
The detailed factual position is placed below to clarify the issues
which have been highlighted in the recent media reports:

1) It has been reported that OMC will pay all legal obligations to all
statutory authorities such as sales tax, etc. However, as per the agreement,
OMC will recover such dues from Vedanta Alumina and will pass on to
the statutory authorities, as OMC is the lessee vide clause No.2.3.3(a).

2) It has been highlighted that Vedanta will transfer the bauxite so
raised from Lanjigarh to outside the State. In this regard, it is clarified
that the clause (b) of the preamble clearly brings out that Vedanta will
set up a 1 million tonne/annum alumina plant at Lanjigarh and a 2.2
lakh tonnes aluminium smelter at Bhukhamunda, Jharsuguda along
with 600 MW capacity of captive power plant. Hence question of
transferring bauxite to outside State does not arise. The agreement at
Sl.No.2.3.2 (e) clearly specifies that bauxite ore from the mines will be
utilized exclusively in the proposed refinery of Vedanta to be established
at Lanjigarh.

3) As regards the report that OMC will not share in the profit, it may be
noted that OMC holds 26% free equity share in the J.V.C. and is
entitled to get 26% of the declared dividend.

4) It is also claimed that in the name of testing purpose M/s .VAL will
take away35 lakh MT of bauxite from Lanjigarh to outside the State. We
wish to clarify that during prospecting period, the job of the lessee is to
ascertain the quantity and quality of the mineral. For that purpose,
maximum 5-10 tonne of mineral is required. Hence in the name of
testing, removal of 35 lakh tonnes of bauxite outside Orissa without
permission of OMC and Govt. of Orissa is a figment of imagination.

5) As regards the report that OMC cannot do anything if Vedanta fails in
achieving its target and that OMC Directors can not participate in their day
to day management in respect of the joint venture company, it is clarified
that adequate provisions have been kept in the agreement for protecting
the interest of the OMC by serving notice for termination of the
agreement for failure in achieving the milestones and the agreement
also provides for dispute resolution mechanism as per Indian
Arbitration Act.

6) It has also been reported that Lanjigarh Mines are worth more than
Rs. 80,000 crores and even in domestic market OMC will lose Rs.500/- per
tonne of bauxite. In this regard, the factual position is that Lanjigarh
bauxite reserve is about 75 million ton and not 125 million tonnes as
claimed in the Press reports. OMC had committed to supply upto
150 million tons. The allegation of OMC losing Rs.500/- per tonne of
bauxite is baseless when the cost price of bauxite is not more than
Rs.200/- per tonne. It is pertinent to mention here that bauxite is not
usually sold as raw material nor its market price quoted. It is normally
transferred at cost price to the alumina plant from the mines of the
alumina producer. Such transfer is made by NALCO from its mines at
a cost of around Rs. 168/- per tonne. Even if Rs. 200/- per tonne is
taken as a the price, the total cost of 150 million tonne will be Rs. 3000
crores, not Rs. 80,000 crores as alleged. As against this Rs. 3000 crores,
the investment on the integrated alluminium complex will be nearly 5
times besides employment opportunities and flow of revenue to the
State. It is indeed unfortunate that when the 1997 MoU has been vastly
improved upon under the Agreement and the interests of the OMC
have been protected by not transferring the lease of the mines, such
highly misleading and palpably untrue allegations have been made.

COUNCIL OF MINISTERS CONFIRMS DECISION ON AGREEMENT BETWEEN OMC LTD.

2006-07-24T18:34:00.000-07:00

From Google cache http://72.14.207.104/search?q=cache:w6NRCvp2C1YJ:orissa.gov.in/news/november/291104/COUNCILOFMINISTERSCONFIRMSDECISION.pdf+His+Excellency,+the+Governor+of+Orissa+in+a+letter+to+the+Chief+Vedanta&hl=or&gl=us&ct=clnk&cd=6

COUNCIL OF MINISTERS CONFIRMS DECISION ON AGREEMENT BETWEEN OMC LTD.
AND M/s VEDANTA ALUMINA LTD.
___________

His Excellency, the Governor of Orissa in a letter to the Chief
Minister had requested that the matter of the agreement between M/s.
OMC Ltd. and M/s Vedanta Alumina Ltd. be placed before the Council
of Ministers for its consideration. Accordingly, this matter was
placed before the 3 rd meeting of the Council of Ministers held
today, dt.29.11.2004. After careful consideration of the issues
raised in the letter of His Excellency, the Governor and detailed
deliberation thereon, the Council of Ministers not only approved the
decision of the Govt. in the Dept. of Steel & Mines, but also
approved the agreement. The issues raised and the brief answers to
the same are provided below:

Issue : Was the MoU of April, 1997 valid when the agreement was
signed ?

Answer: The MoU of 1997 was renewed from time to time and was valid
on the date of agreement.

Issue : With 26% of equity share, OMC will not have
adequate say in the day-to-day management of the joint venture
company.

Answer : 26% equity share is a controlling interest and the
State Government will be able to ensure that no resolution of the
Board is passed which adversely affects the interest of either OMC
Ltd. or the State Government.

Issue : Government and OMC did not consider going for an open
tender.

Answer : The Agreement was to be executed within the framework of
MoU which has been signed in 1997. This MoU did not envisage any
tendering process. The MoU of 1997 clearly promised transfer of
lease of 2 mines namely Lanjigarh and Karlapat by OMC Ltd to M/s
Sterlite Industries (I) Ltd. Introduction of a third party through a
tendering process would have vitiated the understanding. Moreover,
brining in a Page 3 3 third party as raising contractor would have
created serious complications between OMC Ltd. and M/s. Vedanta
Alumina Ltd particularly if the performance of the contractor did
not satisfy the requirement of M/s. Vedanta Alumina Ltd. Therefore,
the question of inviting tenders for raising contractor after more
than 7 years simply does not arise. When a clear assurance has been
provided in the MoU to the party concerned, going back on such an
assurance would not only be a breach of trust, but would also
vitiate the investment climate in the State.

Issue: Foundation stone was laid by Hon’ble Chief Minister, Orissa
without having captive mines.

Answer : The foundation stone laid by the Chief Minister was
independent of the agreement signed on 5 th October, 2004. The
foundation stone was laid for alumina plant and not for the bauxite
mines. The foundation stone laying was done only after the State
Govt. had executed the MoU with M/s Vedanta Alumina Ltd on 7.6.2003
through the Industries Department.

Issue : Government and OMC did not consider export of bauxite.

Answer : The unequivocal policy of the State Government is to add
value to minerals within the State as far as possible. Hence export
of bauxite ore outside the State by a third party was not envisaged.

Issue: Why did OMC agree for a price of approximately Rs.250/- per
metric tonne when the market price is much higher ?

Answer: In fact, bauxite is not sold in the open market. The major
companies such as NALCO and HINDALCO have captive deposits and use
the bauxite for their alumina plants. It has been ascertained that
the pithead price of bauxite for NALCO is Rs.168/- per metric tonne.
At the international level, the bauxite is sold at 16-17 US$ or say
Rs.782/- per metric Page 5 5 tonne. But this price is the FOB price
which includes cost of transportation from mines to port, loading
and unloading charges, chemical analysis, port charges etc. If this
price is analysed, it would be seen that the actual cost of the
bauxite itself would be to the tune of approximately Rs.230/- per
tonne at the pithead (apportioned cost of machine used in mining
plus cost of labour plus the chemical analysis charges Rs.168/- plus
royalty of Rs.60/- = Rs.228/- say Rs.230/-). Hence the approximate
price of Rs.250/- per metric tonne being paid by M/s Vedanta Alumina
Ltd to OMC Ltd is very much in tune with the prevailing price. Also,
there is only one exporter in India which is exporting bauxite in
very small quantities at 16-17 US$. But this is also FOB price. Here
too, the cost of bauxite itself works out to approximately Rs.200/-
per metric tonne.

Issue : Setting up of an aluminium smelter was made optional for M/s
Vedanta Alumina Ltd.

Answer: M/s Vedanta Alumina Ltd have resolved in a Board meeting
held on 18.11.2004 that they will set up the aluminium smelter in
Orissa and are agreeable for due amendment to the agreement.

Issue: The agreement was not approved by the Board of OMC Ltd.

Answer: The agreement was approved by the 345 th meeting of the
Board of OMC Ltd held on 26.06.2004 and 27.06.2004.

Three main dimensions of Vedanta in Orissa

2006-07-24T17:36:00.000-07:00

There are three main dimensions of Vedanta in Orissa. Two related to their operations in Lanjigarh and the third is about the proposed Vedanta University.

First and foremost one must make a distinction between the Vedanta company and Vedanta university. The publicly traded Vedanta Company is not making the Vedanta University. The Vedanta Company has not established the $1 billion endowment for the Vedanta University. Mr. Anil Agarwal of Vedanta Company has established the $1 billion endowment from his own personal fortune.

However, since many people will link Vedanta University with the Vedanta Company,
we will briefly touch upon the two issues/controversies. So the two issues related to the Lanjigarh operations are:

(i) The mining lease and related MOUs/agreements that they have with the Orissa government.

(ii) The environmental issues associated with the Lanjigarh operations.

On issue (i) we were able to find couple of documents from 2004 that answers the controversy. We will list excerpts from those documents in another posting.

On issue (ii) supreme court is involved, environmental agencies are involved, etc. So our take on them is to let those take their course. That is how things should be in a democratic country with rules of laws. If Vedanta satisfies all these agencies and the supreme court and then does the operations then we are fine; subject to proper R & R. If not, Vedanta will not be able to mine, and then the controvesy on this issue will vanish.

Now the reason we separate the issues (i) and (ii) from the issue of Vedanta University is that Mr. Anil Agarwal has operations in many countries. If pacifying issues like (i) and (ii) were the reason behind setting up the Vedanta university foundation then he could have split that money and set up many smaller institutions in the various places where he has operations.

So, even if there are some issues with respect to (i) and (ii) there is no doubt that a $1 billion (Rs 5000 crores) endowment is a groundbreaking action in India. Taking into account purchasing power parity it is closer to the actions of Bill and Melinda Gates in setting of their foundation and the recent action of Warren Buffet donating a large chunk of his money to that foundation. Plus no individual person has donated
that much to an university ever, and anywhere in the world. This is an unparallelled act. One most also note that Bll Gates' Microsoft has been introuble in recent years and has been fined by various agencies. That does not make Bill Gates, less of a philanthropist and no one doubts the sincereity of his foundations. Similarly, let us give Mr. Anil Agarwal a chance to create this mega university which will benefit Orissa tremendously.

With respect to the university, some people have questioned the amount of land he has asked for. First, he is paying for the land. If people are willing to sell him the land, then others have no say in it. With respect to the government land others have a say as a citizen. But then they should behave like citizens. If they have elected a government, then they should let the government do its job. Unless the government is doing something illegal, people should not take matters to their own hand beyond throwing the government (or campaigning to throw the government) out in the next elections. Anyhing other than that is "mob rule" and not democracy.

Having said all that does Vedanta need 10,000 acres of land and what will it do with that land? Are they trying to hoodwink the Orissa government in selling them this land at IDCO rates? Are they going to take the land in the name of the university and then do something else?

Following is our take on it. Vedanta aims to have 100,000 students in that university. A university of 100,000 would need a staff of another 10-15 thousand at least. This is the minimum. Anil Agarwal has talked about developing organizations such as Stanford Research Institute which will be associated with the university and collaborate with university faculty and students to research. Such companies can employ another 5-10 thousand people. So we are talking about the land required to house 120,000 people with academic departments, research buildings, swimming pools, stadiums, shopping areas etc. This is almost a small town. In Orissa, this town will be close to the 6th largest town. (The population of various cities and towns in Orissa are: Bhubaneswar+CTC - 15,77,016; Raurkela - 524,473; Brahmapur - 334,006; Sambalpur - 245,797; Puri - 174,218; Baripada - 122,462; Baleshwar - 116, 420; Bhadrak - 100206; Balangir - 92,753; Barbil - 57,959; Bargarh - 69,943; Bhawanipatna - 65,385; Brajarajnagar - 79,976; Dhenkanala - 63,391; Jatni - 56,316; Jaypur - 81,878; Jharsuguda - 80,438; Kendujhar - 56,797; Paradwip - 89,228; Rayagada - 62,313; Sunabeda - 61285)

So is it reasonable to accumulate 10,000 acres for 120,000 people?
10,000 acres = 40.5 sq km i.e an area of 5 km by 8 km.

It may seem a bit big by Indian standards. But for comparison, as mentioned in the Wikipedia, IIT Kharagpur has 2100 acres for 5000 students, 500 faculty, 2200 employees and a total of 15,000 inhabitants. So Vedanta University with 20 times more students but 5 times the land is not that bad. Lets consider Mumbai, where real estate is really expensive. IIT Mumbai has 550 acres for 4,200 students. Vedanta will have 20 times the land for 25 times the student. So it is not that bad.

International media coverage of Vedanta

2006-07-24T17:32:00.000-07:00

http://www.chinapost.com.tw/business/detail.asp?ID=86481&GRP=E\

http://www.tradingmarkets.com/tm.site/news/ASIAN%20MARKETS/315138/

Dharitri on private land acquisition for Vedanta (in Oriya)

2006-07-24T14:45:00.000-07:00

http://chitta.googlepages.com/2006-july24-dharitri-vedanta-land-acq-bbsr-puri-four-laning.pdf

Dr. Ganeshwar Mishra questions Vedanta's land requirement in Samaja (in Oriya)

2006-07-24T14:44:00.000-07:00

http://chitta.googlepages.com/2006-july23-samaja-vedanta-land-ganeshwar-mishra.pdf

Vedanta's press release on July 19 2006

2006-07-24T14:34:00.000-07:00

http://www.businesswireindia.com/PressRelease.asp?b2mid=10309

Source: Vedanta University
Wednesday, July 19, 2006 06:07 PM IST (12:37 PM GMT)
Editors: General: Economy, Social issues; Business: Business services, Education & training, Mining companies

The Anil Agarwal Foundation Announces a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Orissa to Establish Vedanta University
Government of Orissa identifies 8,000 acres of land near the Konark-Puri Marine Drive to set up India’s first world-class, multi-disciplinary university in the state

Bhubaneswar, Orissa, India, Wednesday, July 19, 2006 -- (Business Wire India)
The Anil Agarwal Foundation–promoted by Mr. Anil Agarwal, Chairman of Vedanta Resources Plc-today announced that it has chosen Orissa as the location for the world-class, multi-disciplinary Vedanta University. The formal announcement was made here today at a brief ceremony held at the State Secretariat where a memorandum of understanding (MOU) was signed with the Government of Orissa. Mr. Anil Agarwal has committed a personal endowment of USD 1 billion towards the setting up of the Vedanta University.

Mr. Naveen Patnaik, Chief Minister of Orissa, who graced the signing ceremony, said, “It is a matter of pride that Vedanta is going to set up a world-class university in India. We are proud that this university is going to be located in Orissa. I hope this university will be the guiding light for thousands of students, both national and international, and will put in motion an immense knowledge revolution in our state.”

Speaking with the media just after the signing ceremony, Mr. Anil Agarwal commented, “India has the potential to be a global leader in business, technology, science, performing arts and sports. The Vedanta University will make global standards of educational excellence more accessible to the future generations of our country thereby creating tomorrow’s Nobel laureates, Olympic champions and heads of government & state. It is my honour and privilege to dedicate the Vedanta University to the people of India”.

Dr. Werner Kreuz, Managing Director of A.T. Kearney, Germany, who are consultants to Vedanta University said, “I am pleased to announce that after careful consideration and an exhaustive search, it has been decided to locate the Vedanta University in the State of Orissa. The Government of Orissa has committed to support and partner with the Vedanta University and it shares our vision of creating a centre of academia that will be amongst the best in the world and the first such university in India. The State Government will pass specific legislation to provide complete administrative autonomy to the Vedanta University. The State Government has identified 8000 acres of land near the Konark-Puri Marine Drive for the campus. The Government will also provide allied infrastructure including an expressway which will connect the campus to Bhubaneswar airport”.

The Vedanta University has appointed the globally acclaimed architecture firm, Ayers Saint Gross to prepare the master plan for the university. This firm has designed some of the best campuses in the world and has 90 years of rich experience with specialization in projects of higher education.

About the Vedanta University

The Vedanta University has been conceived as a world class, multi-disciplinary university. The vision includes the spawning of a research township that grows with the university. Besides serving as a ‘regional economic engine’ the university will set up state-of-the-art infrastructure to drive overall development beyond the academic dimension. The objective is to drive cutting-edge research and produce generations of Indian and global students who will go on to earn laurels in their chosen fields. The Vedanta University, based on a ‘not-for-profit’ philosophy, has been conceived with an autonomous governance structure, made possible by an endowment that provides self-sufficiency.

A university of this stature can have immediate impact on the local economy, by driving significant direct and indirect employment and economic value addition. However, in the longer term, this university will enable the creation of a ‘thriving ecosystem’, in terms of, academia, research, industry and government inter-linkages, resulting in the development of a new ‘economic hub’. Stanford University’s Research Park has spawned more than 1200 companies in the Silicon Valley, with a combined market capitalization of more than USD 300 Billion. The vision of the Vedanta University is to be a similar enabler for India.

The university’s academic and research agenda will reflect its ‘multi-disciplinary’ vision through colleges focusing on a variety of disciplines, including Liberal Arts, Basic Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, Law, Business and Performing Arts, as also ‘Centers of Excellence’ for cross-disciplinary research in areas like Agriculture, Biotechnology and Nanotechnology, Information and Communication Technology, Health Sciences, Rural Economics and Manufacturing Sciences. The Vedanta University would offer graduate, post-graduate and doctoral programmes with world-renowned faculty and potential Nobel laureates driving the academic and research agenda. At the core will be a high calibre, globally diversified student body, comprising an equal mix of Indian and international students. It is envisaged that as the university grows, it would also enable the establishment of other R&D centres, knowledge-based industries and start-ups, to create a vibrant, education and research township.

The estimated outlay for developing the university in phases is Rs.15,000 crores. Earlier this year, the Anil Agarwal Foundation had announced an endowment of USD 1 billion for the setting up of the Vedanta University. The university expects to begin enrolling students in 2008.

To view the photographs please click on the links given below:

http://businesswireindia.com/attachments/Pic1(4).jpg

http://businesswireindia.com/attachments/Pic2.jpg

For press backgrounder on Vedanta University click here

Media contact details

Prakash Mirpuri,
IPAN, Mumbai,
+91 98210 91715,
Prakash@ipan.com

KEYWORDS: ECONOMY, SOCIAL, BUSINESS SERVICES, EDUCATION, MINING

(Maharastra) State loses out $1 billion education project to Orissa

2006-07-24T14:17:00.000-07:00

State loses out $1 billion education project to Orissa

Shubhangi Khapre

Tuesday, July 25, 2006 01:24 IST

The government’s delay in taking a decision led to a loss of Rs5,000 crore investment and a world-class university. Chairman of Vedanta Resources Anil Agarwal signed an MoU with the Orissa government last week after the Maharashtra government failed to
respond.

“The biggest problem was providing 5,000 acres of land adjoining Mumbai and Pune,” said minister for higher and technical education Dilip Walse-Patil.

The Orissa government provided 9,000 acres of land between Puri and Konark and in the process walked away with a mega project.

“Coalition politics along with state’s failure to get the Private University Bill cleared because of a dispute on the reservation quota during the monsoon session has affected the investment,” said an official.

A few NCP and Congress leaders want 50 per cent quotas in private universities.

A proposal to set up Vedanta University with a $1billion investment by Vedanta Resources was presented before the state government. Agarwal had sought the PM’s support too.

“The Vedanta University will make global standards of educational excellence more accessible to the future generations of our country, thereby creating Nobel laureates, Olympic champions and heads of the government and state,” the chairman had said.

The multi-disciplinary university will be set up in phases. The enrolment will start from 2008.

According to a university statement, “The future non-profit institution will aim to compete globally for the finest students, lecturers, and researchers with world renowned universities such as Harvard, Stanford, and Oxford.”

Some links to Vedanta University related news

2006-07-24T14:12:00.000-07:00

[1],[2],[3],[tathya.in July18], [Samaja July 19], [Press release July 20 ], [Samaja July 20 1,2], [Sambada July 20] [Statesman July 20],
[Webindia][DNA India July 20]