Port Blair, May 02: The School of Extension and Development Studies of Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has launched a new programme- Post Graduate Diploma in Development Studies (PGDDVS). This programme has been designed to impart quality education and training in the area of development studies. The new academic programme is meant for development professionally across the sectors and also to fresh graduates interested in pursuing carrier has development professional. The programme objectives are: to impart knowledge on various aspects of development studies; to train qualified human resources in the professional area of development studies. The programme consists of- Introduction to Development and Development Theories; Dynamics of Development; Issues and Challenges of Development; Research Methodology in Development Studies; Development in India; An Overview and Gender and Development. The one year PG Diploma in Development Studies, in English, medium with graduation as eligibility condition, is on offer for July 2019 academic session. The PG Diploma in Development Studies is the first year of Master of Arts in Developmental Studies (MADVS) programme. Therefore, after completing PG Diploma in Development Studies interested students may take lateral entry directly (being modular studies) in MADVS. Interested students may contact the Programme Coordinator Prof. P.V.K. Sasidhar; phone No: 011-29571665, email id; pvksasidhar@ignou.ac.in. A communication from Regional Director, IGNOU, Regional Centre, Port Blair said.