Samant said vaccination coverage in the government education institutes is quite high and there would be no problems in reopening the colleges from February 1. “Across Maharashtra, vaccination of students has been good. Special camps will be held in the colleges where the vaccination turnout is less. Without vaccination, the students will not be allowed to sit for offline classes,” he added.

The minister said the colleges lagging in vaccination will, however, have to continue with online teaching. The vaccination status in the colleges will be reviewed by February 15, said Samant.

Samant announced that the government will spend Rs 9 crore to develop hostel facilities for the girls from backward communities studying in government colleges in Karad.

(With inputs from agencies)