Government today approved a bill to allow foreign education providers to set up campuses in India and offer degrees.<br/><br/>The Foreign Educational Institution (Regulation of Entry and Operation) Bill, was cleared by the Union Cabinet presided by Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh this morning.<br/><br/>This paves way for its introduction in Parliament. Speaking to reporters, HRD Minister Kapil Sibal said this is a milestone which will enhance choices, increase competition and benchmark quality.<br/><br/>The bill seeks to regulate the entry and operation of foreign institutions, which will set up centre and offer degrees in India.Our correspondent reports the bill was hanging fire for over last four years owing to opposition from various quarters, including the Left parties, over certain provisions.<br/><br/>The proposed law prescribes eight-month time bound format for granting approval to foreign educational institutions to set up campuses.