Pune: The Maharashtra Education Society (MES) in Pune has submitted the first proposal for a cluster university to the state government. This proposal, if approved, will pave the way for Garware College and its associated institutions to be converted into a cluster university. The initiative aims to integrate aided and unaided colleges to form cluster universities, thereby enhancing the educational infrastructure of the state.

Currently, Maharashtra is witnessing a rapid increase in private universities, with several reputed institutions such as MIT, G.H. Raisoni, JSPM, and Alard Universities already established in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad.

Similarly, cluster universities are gaining momentum, with four already operational: Homi Bhabha State University, Hyderabad Sindh National Collegiate (HSNC) University, Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil University in Satara, and Warana University in Kolhapur.

MES's proposal includes three institutions under its umbrella: MES Garware College of Commerce, Abasaheb Garware College, and MES Institute of Management and Career Courses (IMCC). According to Babasaheb Shinde, Chairman of the MES Governing Board, the cluster university will only receive recognition after fulfilling all legal and procedural requirements.

Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil had earlier conducted discussions with educational leaders about the concept of cluster universities. Following this, many reputed institutions have shown interest.

The education department has initiated site visits and other actions based on submitted proposals. Approvals will be granted after cabinet clearance and a legislative bill.

However, Shinde raised concerns about the ₹5 crore deposit required for establishing cluster universities, calling it an undue financial burden on institutions. He urged the state government to reconsider this provision.