The Ministry of HRD and the University Grants Commission have shown a special interest in promoting higher education in the North Eastern Region (NER). To improve the Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER), promote higher education, and encourage students from economically weaker sections in the NE region, the UGC has introduced the "Ishan Uday" Special Scholarship Scheme for the North Eastern Region, starting from the academic session 2014-15. Before launching the scheme, the UGC conducted extensive consultations with state governments, central and state universities in the NE region, the Ministry of HRD, the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region, the North Eastern Council in Shillong, and other stakeholders.