New Delhi: Children of unorganised workers can now receive both welfare and merit-based scholarships. The Ministry of Labour & Employment revised its education welfare scheme to allow this. The change aims to boost educational access for these students.
Scheme Revision Details
The Ministry previously offered the Labour Welfare Scheme (Education Component). This provided financial aid to children of specific workers. These include beedi, cine, and iron ore mine workers. The original scheme was need-based. It did not consider academic merit.
The updated guidelines remove this restriction. Students receiving the Ministry’s welfare scholarship can now also apply for merit scholarships. These can be from any central or state government agency. Eligibility for the merit scholarship must still be met.
Impact on Students
This reform prevents students from being excluded due to overlapping scholarship rules. It is expected to benefit children of beedi, cine, and non-coal mine workers. The change aims to increase access to higher education. It also seeks to reduce student dropout rates.
Approximately one lakh beneficiaries already receive aid annually. The new provision is expected to support additional students. This enhanced financial support will help them pursue academic goals. It could improve their long-term career prospects.
Government Commitment
The revision aligns with the Code on Social Security, 2020. This code promotes social security and welfare for unorganised workers. The Ministry states this reform reflects a commitment to labour welfare. It also emphasizes social justice and educational empowerment.