SF 1686

as introduced - 85th Legislature (2007 - 2008) Posted on 12/15/2009 12:00am

A bill for an act
relating to higher education; establishing an India Center at the University of
Minnesota; requiring a report; appropriating money.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MINNESOTA:

Section 1. new text begin UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA INDIA CENTER.
new text end

new text begin Subdivision 1. new text end

new text begin India Center. new text end

new text begin The Board of Regents shall establish an India Center
at the University of Minnesota to promote relations with India and Southeast Asia. The
center must partner with public and private organizations in Minnesota to build, strengthen,
and promote relations; build on mutual interests; and develop understanding between
India, Minnesota, and the United States. As part of its mission, the India Center must:
new text end

new text begin (1) foster an understanding of the history, culture, and values of India;
new text end

new text begin (2) serve as a resource and catalyst to promote economic, governmental, and
academic pursuits involving India; and
new text end

new text begin (3) facilitate educational exchanges, collaborative research, and teaching and
training activities.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 2. new text end

new text begin Objectives. new text end

new text begin (a) The India Center should provide an educational resource
and focal point for Minnesota teachers and students seeking information on the world
languages, culture, and history of India.
new text end

new text begin (b) The India Center should facilitate exchanges between businesses in the United
States and India and encourage participation and partnerships with Minnesota businesses.
The center should provide opportunities for introductions to the cultural, business, and
governmental leaders necessary for business exchanges and partnerships.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 3. new text end

new text begin Advisory council. new text end

new text begin The Board of Regents may form an advisory council to
facilitate the mission and objectives of the India Center. Members of the council should
represent university faculty, staff, and students; community members with an interest in
Indian culture and affairs; and members of the business community with connections to
India. The council should assist the India Center in making connections with other parts
of the university and facilitate the academic, research, teaching, exchange, and training
missions of the India Center.
new text end

new text begin Subd. 4. new text end

new text begin Report. new text end

new text begin The Board of Regents must report on the India Center annually
by February 15 to the governor and chairs of the legislative committees responsible for
higher education finance. The report must measure the progress that the center is making
towards its mission and objectives under this section.
new text end

Sec. 2. new text begin APPROPRIATION.
new text end

new text begin $....... is appropriated to the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota from
the general fund for the biennium ending June 30, 2009, for the India Center under
section 1.
new text end