Gujarat has transferred INR 370 crore in scholarship assistance to over 13 lakh students through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. The amount was released under four major education schemes to strengthen access to education across the state. The initiative is among Gujarat’s largest education support drives in recent years.
The funds were disbursed at an event held in Gandhinagar under the Namo Lakshmi Yojana, Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana, Mukhyamantri Gyan Sadhana Merit Scholarship Yojana, and Mukhyamantri Setu Merit Scholarship Yojana.
Gujarat Scholarship Schemes Focus on Inclusive Education
The four schemes are designed to promote girls’ education, encourage enrolment in science streams, and support merit-based learning. The state government stated that the objective is to reduce financial barriers and ensure continuity in education for students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel said the scholarship transfer reflects the government’s sustained focus on making education accessible and affordable. He also highlighted the transformation of Gujarat’s education ecosystem over the past two decades through consistent policy support.
Namo Lakshmi Yojana Promotes Girls’ Education
The Namo Lakshmi Yojana aims to improve girls’ participation in education and reduce dropout rates at secondary and higher secondary levels.
Under the scheme, INR 1,033 crore has been transferred to 10.49 lakh girl students through DBT so far. According to official data, the initiative has resulted in a 73 per cent rise in girls’ attendance and a 13.59 per cent increase in Class 12 enrolment.
The application process is handled at the school level. Schools verify eligibility and upload student details to the government system, after which the scholarship amount is credited directly to the beneficiaries’ bank accounts.
Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana Boosts Science Enrolment
The Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana focuses on encouraging students to opt for the science stream by reducing the financial burden on families.
Under this scheme, INR 151.84 crore has been disbursed to 1.5 lakh students. The government reported a 6.34 per cent increase in science stream enrolment following the implementation of the scheme.
Students studying in Classes 11 and 12 submit the required documents through their schools. After verification by the Education Department, the scholarship amount is released via DBT.
Gujarat Merit Scholarship Schemes Support Academic Excellence
The Mukhyamantri Gyan Sadhana Merit Scholarship Yojana provides financial support to academically bright students selected through a merit-based process. Under this scheme, INR 86.14 crore has been distributed to around 50,000 students.
Applications for this scholarship are submitted online through the state education system, with selection conducted by the education board.
Meanwhile, the Mukhyamantri Setu Merit Scholarship Yojana has provided INR 61.27 crore to nearly 60,000 students. The scheme aims to promote quality education and ensure smooth academic progression.
Long-Term Education Investment in Gujarat
Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi said that, cumulatively, over INR 1,332 crore has been distributed to more than 13.50 lakh students through these education support schemes so far.
Education Minister Pradyuman Vaja stated that sustained investment in scholarships is intended to build a strong foundation for Viksit Gujarat by empowering students with consistent and long-term educational support.
