The Government of Japan today agreed to extend to Government of India a grant assistance of 787 million yen (approximately equivalent to Rs.43.1crore) for the project for Strengthening of Electronic Media Production Center in Indira Gandhi National Open University. The Exchange of Notes to formalize the arrangement to this effect were signed and exchanged between H.E. Mr. Hideaki Domichi, Ambassador of Japan to India and Mr. Prabodh Saxena, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Finance on 26 July 2010 at a ceremony held in the Ministry of Finance in New Delhi.

As IGNOU is facing increasing demand for audio/video program production, the Government of Japan has decided to support procurement of a range of equipment to realize the digitalization and program production of IGNOU more effectively.

The equipment to be provided under this grant aid would enable IGNOU to tap the improved quality and effectiveness of program production and IGNOU could further contribute to the abolition of regional disparities of education by utilizing the equipment.

The Government of Japan hopes that the grant assistance would contribute to further strengthening of the relationship between Japan and India.