How is the Gujarat government supporting students with over Rs 1,161cr?
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Synopsis
A major initiative by the Gujarat government, under CM Bhupendra Patel, has been launched to empower students financially through two key schemes. With over Rs 1,161 crore disbursed, these programs aim to enhance education accessibility and quality for the future workforce.
Key Takeaways
- Financial support for girl students through Namo Lakshmi Yojana.
- Encouragement for science students via Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana.
- Significant funding exceeding Rs 1,161 crore disbursed.
- Mission Schools of Excellence initiated to enhance infrastructure.
- Focus on technology in education with smart classrooms and labs.
Gandhinagar, Sep 14 (NationPress) As Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel marked four years in office on September 13, the Gujarat government emphasized two significant educational programs launched in March 2024—Namo Lakshmi Yojana and Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana—designed to provide financial assistance to students, according to an official announcement on Sunday.
Through the Namo Lakshmi Yojana, female students in classes 9 to 12 receive financial support amounting to Rs 50,000 over four years to motivate them to complete their education.
To date, over 10.49 lakh girls have benefited from the scheme, with disbursements exceeding Rs 1,000 crore. A dedicated Namo Lakshmi Portal has been established to facilitate its execution. Meanwhile, the Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana offers students in the science stream in classes 11 and 12 Rs 25,000 over a two-year period.
Qualified students are those who achieve 50 percent or more in their class 10 board examinations and enroll in GSHSEB or CBSE-recognized institutions. Since its inception, more than 1.50 lakh students have gained from this initiative, with funding surpassing Rs 161 crore. The program operates through a separate Namo Saraswati Portal.
Officials mentioned that both initiatives align with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a developed India by 2047, focusing on building a skilled workforce for Gujarat's future growth in critical sectors such as semiconductors, green energy, and digital sciences.
Gujarat hosts approximately 34,500 government schools, including nearly 32,000 primary schools, but faces significant challenges regarding manpower and infrastructure, with 1,606 schools operating with only one teacher and over 19,000 teacher positions unfilled.
To tackle these issues, the state has initiated the Mission Schools of Excellence, which encompasses around 40,000 government and grant-in-aid schools. More than 13,000 new classrooms have been constructed, with 31,000 more under development, in addition to over one lakh smart classrooms and 21,000 computer labs being established.
Currently, nearly 98 percent of schools are equipped with computer facilities, while 94 percent have internet access. The expansion of STEM labs and upgraded classrooms is progressing swiftly to enhance both access and quality of education.
Point of View
The steps taken by the Gujarat government reflect a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities, particularly for underrepresented groups. By investing in future generations, these initiatives not only align with national goals but also foster a more equitable educational landscape.
NationPress
14/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Namo Lakshmi Yojana?
The Namo Lakshmi Yojana provides financial assistance of Rs 50,000 to girl students in classes 9 to 12 over four years to encourage their education.
Who qualifies for the Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana?
Students in classes 11 and 12 pursuing the science stream, who score 50 percent or higher in their class 10 exams and enroll in GSHSEB or CBSE-recognized schools, are eligible.
How much funding has been disbursed so far under these schemes?
Over Rs 1,161 crore has been disbursed across both schemes, benefiting more than 12 lakh students.
What is the goal of the Mission Schools of Excellence?
The Mission Schools of Excellence aims to improve infrastructure and educational quality in around 40,000 government and grant-in-aid schools across Gujarat.
What role does technology play in these educational reforms?
Technology is crucial, with initiatives including the establishment of smart classrooms, computer labs, and internet access to enhance learning experiences.
