Mumbai beat

Sportspersons8217; quota in Std XI

The state government has notified all colleges in the state to reserve two per cent seats in Std XI for students excelling in sports. According to the notification, 1098 dated 28/2/98, students who have won gold, silver and bronze medals at district, state and national-level competitions will be eligible. The rule comes into effect from this year, when admission will commence after the SSCresults on June 22. College heads will have the final say in admitting students; they have also been given the powers to fill the quota on the basis of merit, if eligible sports candidates are not forthcoming.

Fund for theatre artistes

Cultural Affairs Minister Pramod Navalkar has urged setting up the Akhil Bhartiya Natya Parishad to set up a permanent fund for the benefit of noted theatre artists. Speaking at a gathering of theatre artists at Rangasharda today, Navalkar said the government receives letters from noted old theatre artists seeking financial aid 8220;but the government scheme has certain limitations. 8220;Since the artists have helped in enriching Marathi culture, audiences should contribute generously towards the fund,8221; he added.