The state government is also considering a 10 per cent hike in the tuition fees of degree colleges and polytechnic diploma institutes.

Minister of Higher and Technical Education Datta Rane told Express Newsline on Tuesday said: ``Though nothing is finalised, a high level three-member committee comprising Finance Minister Eknath Khadse, Education Minister Sudhir Joshi and myself is discussing the fee hike.''

Rane, however, added that it is not certain if the hike will be implemented as the state has to also discuss this issue with the students before implementing it. While Rane refused to divulge further details, sources informed that the annual fees per student in degree colleges of arts, science and commerce may increase from Rs 800 to Rs 1200 this academic year; and for post-graduate studies the hike will be from Rs 1000 to Rs 1500.

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.