Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma launched three new cash aid schemes on Thursday for nearly 100,000 students. The programs aim to support graduates, researchers, and undergraduate/postgraduate students.
New Student Financial Aid Schemes
The initiatives include ‘Jibon Prerana’, ‘Jibon Anuprerana’, and ‘Nijut Babu Asoni’. These programs provide direct cash transfers to beneficiaries.
Scheme Details and Beneficiaries
The Chief Minister’s Jibon Prerana scheme will provide Rs 2,500 monthly for one year to 48,319 fresh graduates. This aims to support their career development.
The ‘Jibon Anuprerana’ scheme offers a one-time payment between Rs 25,000 and Rs 40,000. This assistance will go to 2,112 researchers, including Divyang scholars, to encourage innovation.
Under the ‘Mukhya Mantrir Nijut Babu Asoni’ scheme , 47,395 first-year undergraduate and postgraduate male students will receive monthly support. This program is designed to reduce dropout rates.
Existing Support and Expanded Reach
These new schemes complement the existing ‘Nijut Moina’ scheme . ‘Nijut Moina’ provides monthly stipends up to Rs 2,500 to girl students from Class 11 to postgraduate levels. This program began in 2024 to combat child marriage and student dropouts.
With the addition of ‘Nijut Babu’, the government aims to support a total of 10 lakh students across both schemes. This broadens efforts to promote higher education and critical thinking among youth.
Technological Skill Development
At the same event, 31 advanced technology labs were launched virtually. These labs, established with Tata Technologies, are located in ITIs and polytechnic institutes. They will equip students with skills in manufacturing and automation.
Context of Scheme Launch
The launch precedes the likely Assembly polls scheduled for March-April. Chief Minister Sarma stated the schemes offer male students, particularly from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, financial aid to continue their education.