Mumbai University senate approves ₹968.2 crore budget

Mumbai University approved its budget for the 2025-26 academic year during a senate meeting on Saturday. The budget totals Rs 968.2 crore, which is 9.5% higher than last year. The meeting was marked by protests from members of the Yuva Sena and the Bombay University and College Teachers' Union. They staged a walk-out and a sit-in protest, disrupting the session for over two hours. The protesters claimed the budget had not been passed by the university's management council before being presented to the senate. Despite the protests, the meeting continued. Vice-chancellor Ravindra Kulkarni and many council members stated the budget had been discussed and approved in the management council meeting held on March 12. Ajay Bhamre, the pro-vice-chancellor, confirmed that the budget was on the agenda and had received approval. The budget passed with a majority vote, while the protesters continued their sit-in until the meeting ended around 6 PM. This year's budget includes a significant focus on quality, inclusiveness, and new initiatives. It also shows a deficit of Rs 147.6 crore. A portion of Rs 75 crore is allocated for academic excellence, research, and collaborations. Additionally, Rs 135 crore is set aside for development projects, including the Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Research Centre and the School of Languages Building Phase II.