Archive · 6 Nov 2025
Mahagathbandhan Manifesto Examined Through Phule-Ambedkarite Lens
Imagine a group running for elections in Bihar, called the MGB, who made promises about education.
They said they would help 200 students from certain communities, who often face disadvantages, to study in other countries.
They also promised to get rid of a rule that sometimes stops students from getting help.
This is important because Bihar's students don't go to college as much as students in other parts of the country.
Also, a new rule was suggested that might make it harder for these students to get help.
People who study these things have always said this rule is a way to keep certain students out of schools.
The MGB's ideas are similar to a program in another state that helps students study abroad, but that program had problems when the government didn't pay the students on time.
So, the MGB needs to be very careful and quick to make sure their promises help students and don't cause problems like the other program did.
Mahagathbandhan (MGB) manifesto pledges to send 200 SC/ST students abroad for further education.
MGB commits to nullifying the 'Not Fund Suitable/NFS' status, criticized for excluding marginalized students.
Bihar's Gross Enrolment Ratio in higher education (17.1%) lags behind the national average (28.4%).
Recent UGC draft guidelines proposed 'de-reservation' of positions, potentially impacting affirmative action.
MGB's promises are analyzed in light of Telangana's overseas scholarship program and its past funding issues.
- Who
- Mahagathbandhan (MGB) in Bihar
- What
- Analyzing the MGB manifesto's promises regarding higher education and affirmative action through a Phule-Ambedkarite lens.
- When
- Context of 2024 UGC draft guidelines on 'de-reservation'
- Where
- Bihar, India
- Why
- To evaluate the significance and potential impact of MGB's commitments to marginalized students in higher education, considering existing data and past issues with scholarship programs.
- Bihar's Higher Education GER (2021-22)
- 17.1%
- National Higher Education GER
- 28.4%
- MGB Manifesto Promise 1
- Send 200 SC/ST students abroad for further education
- MGB Manifesto Promise 2
- Declare 'Not Fund Suitable/NFS' status as null and void