Union Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Monday, 24 August announced the launch of 'Mama Coaching Classes' in Raisen, Madhya Pradesh, a free coaching initiative aimed at helping students prepare for competitive examinations without relying on costly private coaching centres. The announcement was made at the Prem Sundar Meritorious Student Felicitation Ceremony in Raisen, where Chouhan also honoured Class 10 and 12 toppers with laptops.

What the Initiative Covers

The Mama Coaching Classes programme will prepare students for MPPSC, SSC, banking, and other competitive examinations conducted by state and central governments. Applications will be accepted from 10 to 15 September, followed by a written examination on 20 September. After selection and interviews, classes are scheduled to begin on 5 October.

Chouhan indicated that online coaching would also be explored for students who do not secure direct admission, ensuring broader access. 'Instead of paying the fees of individual students, we have decided to provide quality coaching in Raisen itself,' he said.

Sandipani School Inauguration

During the same visit, Chouhan inaugurated the Sandipani School in Raisen, constructed at a cost of ₹38.38 crore. He underscored that such institutions must be equipped with modern laboratories, libraries, smart classrooms, playgrounds, and facilities for sports, music, dance, and painting. 'Government schools should not just be buildings. They should become places where children can fulfil their dreams,' he said.

He also participated in the application process for the Azim Premji Foundation Girls' Scholarship Scheme on the occasion.

Skill Training and Employment Push

Chouhan further announced plans to provide skill training to youth aligned with industry requirements, acknowledging that government jobs could not absorb all aspirants. ITIs and private institutions would be involved in delivering this training, with employment fairs to follow for facilitating placements.

He stressed that education must not be constrained by economic circumstances, and that government schools should offer facilities on par with private institutions. 'Every child has immense intelligence, talent and the ability to succeed. Whether a boy or a girl, no child is weak,' he said, addressing students at the ceremony.

Administrative Review in Raisen

Separately, Chouhan met with senior administrative officials in Raisen to review the progress of development works and the implementation of government schemes across the district. The visit signals continued attention to Raisen as a focus district for educational and infrastructural investment.

With the coaching classes set to begin in October, the initiative will be closely watched as a model for whether locally delivered, government-backed coaching can meaningfully reduce the financial burden on aspirants from smaller towns.