Minister of State Mahendra Nath Pandey has invited industry to come forward for partnership to take up development schemes, support start-ups, and take up new initiatives.

Addressing a day long programme 'Transforming Lives Through Education and Innovation & Education Excellence Awards 2017' organised by ASSOCHAM in Kolkata on Tuesday, the minister called for partnership of industry in these areas.

The programme was focussed on pre-school education, primary and secondary schooling and higher education.

The delibrations centered around quality in education, technological interventions that can take sector forward and the holistic education and engagement of educators from pre-school level.

Pandey also talked about various measures to tap other elements who are engaged in the field of education. He said education is a subject matter of centre and state and expected greater cooperation from all the states.

The minister invited suggestions and comments on draft education policy and other matters from industry members.