Will Himachal Provide Grants to Daughters of Widows for Higher Education?
Synopsis
The Himachal Pradesh government has announced an expansion of the Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Yojna, now providing financial assistance to daughters of widows for higher education. This initiative aims to empower vulnerable groups, enhancing educational opportunities and promoting self-reliance.
Key Takeaways
Financial support for daughters of widows pursuing higher education.
Eligibility extended up to 27 years of age .
Monthly aid of Rs 3,000 for up to 10 months.
Covers various professional courses across multiple fields.
Strong commitment to empower vulnerable sections of society.
Shimla, Feb 20 (NationPress) The Himachal Pradesh government announced on Friday that it is broadening the scope of the Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Yojna by offering financial aid to daughters of widows who are pursuing higher education both within the state and beyond.
This initiative aims to deliver holistic support in the realms of education, health, and nutrition to children of widows, destitute or divorced women, and disabled parents. It has now been revised to assist eligible daughters up to the age of 27 in seeking higher education.
According to the new provisions, beneficiaries enrolled in professional courses at government institutions outside the state can receive financial support of Rs 3,000 per month for up to 10 months. This amount can help cover costs related to rent or paying guest accommodations when government hostel facilities are unavailable.
The professional courses included in this expanded scheme consist of engineering and technology, business and management, medical and allied health sciences, law, computer applications, IT certifications, education, and humanities programmes under the State Council for Vocational Training (SCVT) courses provided by the Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering and Technology.
Currently, the scheme extends monthly financial support to children of eligible women and disabled parents up to 18 years of age, covering tuition fees, hostel charges, and other educational expenses for students attending government institutions within the state.
As of now, 504 girls aged 18-27 are benefiting from this scheme, and it is projected that about 20% of them may pursue professional courses under the newly expanded provisions. To accommodate this anticipated demand, an additional annual budget of approximately Rs 1 crore will be allocated.
This fiscal year, the government has earmarked Rs 31.01 crore for the Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Yojna, of which Rs 22.96 crore had already been utilized as of February 3.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu reaffirmed the government's commitment to uplifting vulnerable segments of society, emphasizing that the primary goal of the scheme is to promote self-reliance among beneficiaries through sustained financial and logistical support.
Point of View
This initiative by the Himachal Pradesh government is a commendable step towards addressing educational disparities among vulnerable populations. By extending financial support to daughters of widows, the scheme not only promotes gender equality but also fosters self-reliance, ultimately contributing to societal upliftment.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the financial assistance under the Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Yojna?
Daughters of widows, destitute, or divorced women, as well as those with disabled parents, are eligible for financial assistance up to the age of 27.
What is the monthly financial aid amount provided to beneficiaries?
Beneficiaries enrolled in professional courses at government institutions outside the state are eligible to receive Rs 3,000 per month for up to 10 months.
What kinds of courses are covered under the expanded scheme?
The expanded scheme covers professional courses such as engineering, technology, business management, medical sciences, law, and IT certifications.
