Strengthening Educational Ties Between India and Norway

New Delhi, July 23: Human Resource Development Minister Smriti Irani Tuesday met Norway's Ambassador to India Eivind S. Homme and discussed collaboration in various education related issues between the two nations. The Ambassador expressed the hope that under her leadership, education ties will be further strengthened between India and Norway.

"Irani discussed about high altitude studies, particularly for the National Institute of Himalayan Studies announced in the budget this year," the HRD ministry said in a statement.

"Various other issues, including energy studies, clean energy, climate change, Arctic studies, oceanography and information security were taken up during the discussion, with the financial commitment of Rs.8.5 crore from each side over a period of five years," the statement said.

Ambassador Homme said Norway places great emphasis on education of girls throughout the world. The Union Minister Smt Smriti Irani reciprocated by saying that education and empowerment of girls is a priority topic for her, both as a Minister as well as an individual. She highlighted that "Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao" - "Save the Girl Child, Educate the Girl Child" has been announced by the Government focusing on the girl child.

IANS