Ludhiana Veterinary University Students Fume Over Delayed Stipend Increase, Threaten Renewed Protests
Students at Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU) in Ludhiana are expressing deep frustration and anger over the prolonged delay in implementing a promised hike in their internship stipends. Despite official announcements and assurances from state authorities, interns continue to receive only Rs 15,000 per month, leading to threats of resuming protests that previously lasted 34 days.
Background of the Stipend Issue and Past Protests
Last year, veterinary interns at GADVASU staged a significant 34-day protest to demand better stipends. In response, the Punjab government announced in October 2025 that stipends would be raised. This commitment was formalized with a notification issued on January 12, 2026, which was forwarded to the university a week later. The revised stipend of Rs 22,000 per month was publicly announced by Animal Husbandry Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian at the Pashu Palan Mela in Rampura Phul and reaffirmed by Vice-Chancellor Jatinder Paul Singh Gill, who assured implementation starting from January 2026.
Current Situation and Student Grievances
However, as of March 2026, the interns report that they have not seen any change in their monthly payments, still receiving the old amount of Rs 15,000. Avneet Jassal, a member of the Veterinary Students’ Union, highlighted that the hike was agreed upon in an official meeting on October 28, 2025, attended by key figures including Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema, Principal Secretary (Animal Husbandry) Rahul Bhandari, and the Vice-Chancellor. "Despite clear commitments and official communication, nothing has changed," Jassal stated, emphasizing the breach of trust.
Other interns, such as Dishant Chauhan, echoed this sentiment, saying, "We were promised the revised stipend but are still being paid the old amount." Students Muhammad Danish and Kamal added that they have held multiple meetings with university authorities, including the Vice-Chancellor, registrar, and comptroller, but have received only verbal assurances without concrete action.
Union's Condemnation and Demands
The Veterinary Students’ Union has strongly condemned the delay, labeling it a breach of trust by both the state government and university authorities. They are demanding:
- Immediate implementation of the stipend hike to Rs 22,000 per month.
- Release of arrears for the months since the promised effective date.
The union has issued a stern warning that failure to address these demands promptly will force students to resume protests, potentially disrupting academic and administrative activities at the university.
Broader Implications and Context
This issue highlights ongoing challenges in veterinary education and student welfare in Punjab. The delay in stipend implementation not only affects the financial well-being of interns but also raises concerns about governance and accountability in educational institutions. As students prepare for possible renewed agitation, the situation underscores the need for timely action from authorities to uphold commitments and maintain trust within the academic community.
