Assam CM Disburses Rs. 68.44 Crore to 349 Institutions, Paving Way for Nearly One Lakh Students

Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma disbursed Rs. 68.44 crore to 349 institutions under the Pragyan Bharti scheme to facilitate free higher education. Since its launch in 2016-17, the scheme has benefited over 22 lakh students, focusing on increasing higher education enrollment and utilizing technology for seamless admissions.

Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma disbursed Rs. 68.44 crore to 349 institutions under Phase-I of the Pragyan Bharti scheme during a function held at Janata Bhawan in Guwahati. This move aims to facilitate free higher education for nearly one lakh students from poor and middle-class backgrounds under the state's policy.

Launched in the year 2016-17, the Pragyan Bharti scheme has benefited a total of 22,30,257 students up to the academic year 2023-24. Chief Minister Dr. Sarma, speaking at the event, emphasized the scheme's role in increasing the Gross Enrollment Ratio in higher education across the state.

The scheme has expanded over the years to include higher secondary and postgraduate students. Dr. Sarma noted that 2,94,633 students received benefits in 2023-24, proving the scheme’s success. He highlighted the use of the 'Samarth Portal' for admissions, which has seen an 85.2% admission rate among 2,28,399 applicants, ensuring a smooth and transparent process.

The Chief Minister emphasized the importance of technology and artificial intelligence in future education systems. Using tools like the 'Samarth Portal,' the state aims to make the admission process clean and hassle-free. Additionally, various initiatives like free enrolment, bicycle and scooty distribution, and the 'Nijut Moina' scheme have brought revolutionary changes to the state's academic landscape.

Dr. Sarma recounted his own experiences as a student, acknowledging the financial struggles many face. As a result, he implemented free admission policies for students from BPL and middle-income families.

Addressing recent reactions to the exemption of PRC for certain appointments, Dr. Sarma argued that local language proficiency requirements would better protect local interests than the PRC, which can be acquired after three years of residency in Assam.

The Education Minister Dr. Ranoj Pegu, and several university Vice-Chancellors, were present, with Dr. Sarma concluding that the remaining eligible admissions will receive financial benefits under the scheme in September.