Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta distributed scholarships totaling Rs 25.25 crore to 1,709 meritorious students on Monday. The scholarships were awarded under the Delhi Higher and Technical Education Assistance Scheme. The event took place at Thyagaraj Stadium, coinciding with National Youth Day.
Education Minister Ashish Sood and senior officials from the Education Department attended the distribution program. University vice-chancellors and educationists were also present. The financial aid specifically supports students from economically weaker sections pursuing higher education.
Scholarship Program Details
Chief Minister Gupta confirmed the direct transfer of scholarship amounts to eligible students’ bank accounts. These funds cover the academic years 2023-24 and 2024-25 . Students attend various universities located across Delhi.
Gupta also announced the release of a previously pending Rs 19 crore scholarship amount . This amount originated from the previous government’s tenure. The Chief Minister stated that no education funds earmarked for students would remain pending in the future.
During her address, CM Gupta stated this financial assistance represents the Delhi government’s investment in students’ futures. She added that the scheme aims to strengthen the city’s youth. Gupta called on students to adopt Swami Vivekananda’s philosophy. She encouraged dedication and discipline in pursuing their goals.
The Chief Minister linked national progress to youth advancement. She emphasized the role of young people in achieving a developed India by 2047 . Gupta also stated national development requires collective citizen responsibility and participation, not just government policies.
Government’s Educational Initiatives
Education Minister Ashish Sood affirmed the government’s commitment to improving the education sector. He stated the administration provides adequate support to disadvantaged students. Sood cited the “Antyodaya” principle. This principle aims for government benefits to reach society’s lowest rung.
Narela Education City Project
Minister Sood provided an update on the Narela Education City project. This project, stalled for several years, is now actively moving forward. Its budget increased from Rs 500 crore to Rs 1,300 crore . The project will encompass 160 acres .
Narela Education City plans include shared university campuses, large auditoriums, modern libraries, digital libraries, and advanced ICT laboratories. Sood stated the project aims to address existing challenges within the education sector. He emphasized using policy measures and effective implementation. Education plays a vital role in shaping future leadership, he added.
Eligibility for Financial Assistance
The Delhi Higher and Technical Education Assistance Scheme has clear eligibility requirements. These criteria ensure financial aid reaches deserving students. The scholarship amount is transferred directly to beneficiaries’ bank accounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.
| Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Academic Qualification | Passed Class XII from a Delhi school |
| Minimum Marks | At least 75% in Class XII |
| Economic Status | From economically weaker sections |
| Income Requirement | Must meet prescribed income criteria |
| Beneficiary Type | Meritorious students |
This scheme provides critical financial support. It enables eligible students to pursue higher and technical education. The Delhi government aims to expand educational opportunities for all qualified young adults in the city. This support helps students overcome financial barriers to their academic and professional development.