The Visva-Bharati Act, 1951

Summary of the Visva-Bharati Act, 1951

The Visva-Bharati Act, 1951 was enacted to declare Visva-Bharati, founded by Rabindranath Tagore, as an institution of national importance and to establish it as a Central University. The Act provides for the governance, administration, and development of the University while preserving the ideals and vision of its founder.

Key Provisions

• Declares Visva-Bharati to be an institution of national importance.

• Establishes the University as a Central University with perpetual succession and a common seal.

• Provides for the constitution of the University's authorities, including the Court, Executive Council, Academic Council, and other statutory bodies.

• Defines the powers and functions of the University, including:

o Providing instruction in various branches of learning.

o Conducting research and promoting innovation.

o Conferring degrees, diplomas, and other academic distinctions.

o Establishing departments, schools, centres, and affiliated institutions.

• Prescribes the appointment and responsibilities of the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, and other officers of the University.

• Enables the University to receive grants, donations, endowments, and manage its property and finances.

Importance

• Recognises and preserves the unique educational philosophy of Rabindranath Tagore.

• Promotes interdisciplinary learning, arts, culture, humanities, sciences, and rural development.

• Encourages cultural exchange and international cooperation in education.

• Contributes to the advancement of higher education and research in India.