The Ministry of Education has approved a major infrastructure development package worth Rs 3.85 billion for the Central University of Tamil Nadu (CUTN), Tiruvarur. The funding, channelled through the Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA), is expected to transform the university’s facilities and address long-standing gaps in infrastructure since its establishment in 2009.

The announcement comes just ahead of the university’s 10th convocation on 3 September, where President Droupadi Murmu is set to deliver the convocation address, making the occasion doubly significant for the institution.

Vice Chancellor M. Krishnan expressed gratitude for the approval, stating, “This funding will significantly enhance the quality of education and research at CUTN. We had presented the university’s needs to the ministry recently, and it is encouraging to see them recognised.”

Key components of the approved development plan include the construction of a new state-of-the-art academic building at a cost of Rs 964 million. Hostel capacity will be expanded with a 300-bed girls’ hostel and a 300-bed boys’ hostel, sanctioned at Rs 466 million and Rs 469 million respectively. A 400-bed research scholars’ hostel, valued at Rs 426 million, will support the university’s growing academic community.

To strengthen the university’s research capabilities, Rs 200 million has been earmarked for a Scientific Instrumentation Centre and Rs 168 million for scientific equipment procurement.

Administrative and staff facilities will also see major upgrades. The administrative block will be expanded at a cost of Rs 462 million, while Rs 630 million will be used to build residential quarters for faculty and staff across all categories.

A CUTN official noted, “Since its inception in 2009, the university has operated with minimal infrastructure. This funding marks a pivotal moment—we will finally have purpose-built hostels and residences on campus.”

This investment is expected to elevate CUTN’s academic and research environment, supporting its aim to emerge as a leading centre for higher education in the region.