The executive council of the North Bengal University (NBU) took a number of decisions in a meeting here on Tuesday, such as library access to affiliated colleges and more resources for new researchers, among others.

“We have taken certain decisions which will inculcate institutional growth and facilitate the students of these regions to use the NBU’s resources judiciously,” said Omprakash Mishra, the vice-chancellor.

Sources said from now on, students of all affiliated colleges of NBU can access the varsity’s library.

“So far, the university library was used by students of Darjeeling Hills University and the Centre for Distance and Open Education. Now it will be open to students of affiliated colleges,” said a source.

Around one lakh students study in 49 colleges affiliated to the varsity.

Among other decisions is a plan to provide seed money for research work only to teachers with no prior experience in conducting research.

“The university has decided to encourage and incentivise teachers for good publications in reputed journals through reimbursement of fees for article publication. The Board of Research Studies will scrutinise the subjects. If found unsuitable, the proposal can be rejected,” said a source.

A senior faculty member said that the council has also decided to allow contractual teachers with the necessary qualifications to supervise PhD students.

An expression of interest will also be invited to create a knowledge and innovation-driven bio-economy centre at the Centre for Floriculture and Agri-Business Management of the varsity, a source said.