Assam Grants Free Higher Education to 95,000 Students in Major Initiative
In a landmark decision aimed at increasing access to higher education, Assam has awarded free college admissions to nearly 95,000 students from underprivileged backgrounds. Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma made the announcement on Wednesday, reaffirming the state’s commitment to supporting education from Class 11 to postgraduate levels.
Under the ‘Pragyan Bharati Scheme,’ Sarma allocated Rs 68.44 crore to 349 colleges and universities to fund higher secondary, undergraduate, and postgraduate programs in arts, science, and commerce. During the announcement, he stressed the initiative’s role in empowering economically disadvantaged students.
“Today, almost one lakh students have gained access to free education. This scheme aims to promote inclusivity and support students from underprivileged communities,” Sarma stated.
For the 2024-25 academic year, 94,838 students from low- and middle-income families have already benefited from the initial phase of the program. The Rs 68.44 crore allocation will be followed by additional payments pending document verification.
“The next round of admissions and fee waivers for CUET and non-CUET candidates will take place in September,” Sarma added.
Education Minister Ranoj Pegu also announced changes to the eligibility criteria, increasing the parental income threshold from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 4 lakh, thus allowing more students to qualify. Additionally, colleges will now accept ration cards as proof of family income instead of requiring income certificates.
Since its launch, the Pragyan Bharati Scheme has assisted a total of 2.23 million students, with a cumulative funding of Rs 826.36 crore reported up to the last academic year. This initiative highlights Assam’s commitment to removing financial barriers to education.