- Past deprivations of the people of minority groups can not be compensated by allocating additional funds and personnel. The funds and personnel have to come from within these groups otherwise backwardness will become a vested interest.

Prof. Kamalini H. Bhansali, Former Vice-Chancellor, SNDT Women's University and President, Indian Association for Women's Studies, 92- B, Maker Towers, Cuffe Parade, Bombay (5.10.1990)

- Specific programmes for women's education are to be suggested in formal and non-formal education. Preference be given to women in the matter of employment, and admission to polytechnics, higher educational institutions etc. Separate educational institutions be set up for them. In co-education institutions 30-35 per cent seats be reserved for women.

Shri B.N. Bhatia, 286, Adarsh Nagar, Jaipur 302004 (5.10.90)

- The cost of school education is a deterrent factor in the case of rural poor. Measures have to be suggested to overcome this. The educational calendar should be re-adjusted to the convenience of the rural people.

78

- Vocational training be given after five years of school instead of introducing it only at higher secondary stage.

- All girls should receive free education at government expense and those from weaker sections should be given a monthly stipend of Rs. 10/15, along with two sets of clothing every year.

Shri A. K. Panda, Harijan Adibasi Dina Daridra Nari Seba Sangh, Vill/PO Bachhipur, Via Brahmangaon, Distt. Balasore, Orissa (29th September, 1990).

- The Perspective Paper has not attempted to redefine merit nor has it tried to rectify a very wrong notion about talent and talent search now in vogue. It has not questioned the logic of the policy of searching for talent instead of directing efforts to develop talent. Instead of talent search, talent developing should be the aim.

79