Will Kerala Ensure No SC/ST Child Lags in Knowledge-Based Progress?
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Synopsis
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan reiterates his commitment to ensuring that no child from SC/ST or marginalized communities is left behind in Kerala's knowledge-driven transformation. With various initiatives, the government aims to provide equal access to education and employment opportunities, reflecting the vision of social inclusivity.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala's commitment to educational inclusivity for SC/ST communities.
- Unnathi Scholarship empowers students to study abroad.
- Technical training programs offer job readiness within six months.
- TRACE program supports youth in various professional fields.
- e-Grants program assists over 13 lakh students.
Kasaragod, Oct 2 (NationPress) Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan emphasized on Thursday that not a single child from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), or other marginalized communities should be overlooked in Kerala's journey toward a knowledge-centric society. Speaking at the Durga Higher Secondary School Auditorium in Kanhangad, the Chief Minister stated that the government's primary aim is to incorporate marginalized groups into the mainstream and ensure equal opportunities in education, employment, and social welfare.
This initiative, which is set to commence on Gandhi Jayanti, is driven by the motto: “Leap towards knowledge and employment”, embodying Gandhiji’s vision of social inclusivity.
CM Vijayan highlighted the state's flagship programs designed to empower marginalized communities. The Unnathi Scholarship has already assisted over 1,000 SC/ST students in pursuing higher education abroad.
Technical training programs under the government’s skill development initiatives prepare students from these communities to secure jobs within six months after completing their courses.
He also mentioned the Palakkad Medical College, which enrolls 72 SC/ST students each year. Since 2014, 413 SC and 15 ST students have graduated as doctors, contributing to Kerala’s healthcare system.
Furthermore, the Training for Career Excellence (TRACE) program offers stipendiary training to over 5,000 youths in fields like engineering, law, nursing, paramedical, management, and journalism.
The CM emphasized the Smart Study Room initiative, which provides Rs 2.5 lakh per unit, alongside the state’s LIFE and SAFE housing schemes, ensuring that marginalized families have secure homes.
Currently, more than 13 lakh students, including 4.5 lakh SC and 80,000 ST students, benefit from various pre- and post-matric scholarships under the state’s e-Grants program, irrespective of family income.
CM Vijayan also highlighted the significance of ongoing campaigns addressing sanitation, anti-drug initiatives, healthcare, employment, rights awareness, and disaster preparedness.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensure that “the taste of development and touch of welfare reaches every region, leaving no one behind”.
Point of View
The commitment of the Kerala government towards inclusivity in education and employment for SC/ST communities is commendable. This initiative not only addresses long-standing disparities but also sets a precedent for other states to follow. The emphasis on equal opportunities reflects a progressive approach towards social welfare and development in India's diverse landscape.
NationPress
02/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Unnathi Scholarship?
The Unnathi Scholarship is a program aimed at assisting SC/ST students in pursuing higher education abroad, having already benefited over 1,000 students.
How many SC/ST students are admitted to Palakkad Medical College?
Palakkad Medical College enrolls 72 SC/ST students each year, contributing to the healthcare workforce in Kerala.
What does the TRACE program offer?
The Training for Career Excellence (TRACE) program provides stipendiary training for over 5,000 youths in various professional fields.
How many students benefit from the e-Grants program?
Currently, over 13 lakh students, including 4.5 lakh SC and 80,000 ST students, benefit from the state’s e-Grants scholarships.
What is the Smart Study Room initiative?
The Smart Study Room initiative provides Rs 2.5 lakh per unit to enhance educational infrastructure for marginalized communities.
