Delhi Government Distributes Rs 25.25 Crore in Scholarships to Meritorious Students
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta personally handed out scholarships worth Rs 25.25 crore to 1,709 deserving students on Monday. The event coincided with the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda, which India celebrates as National Youth Day.
Direct Financial Support for Education
Addressing the gathering at Thyagaraj Stadium, Chief Minister Gupta emphasized the government's commitment to investing in students' futures. She stated that providing financial assistance represents a crucial step toward empowering Delhi's youth.
The scholarship amounts for both the 2023-24 and 2024-25 academic years have already reached students' bank accounts through direct transfers. Gupta also revealed that her administration cleared a pending scholarship amount of Rs 19 crore from the previous government's tenure.
"No funds earmarked for students' education will remain pending in the future," the Chief Minister asserted firmly.
Inspiring Youth on National Youth Day
Gupta encouraged students to draw inspiration from Swami Vivekananda's philosophy during her National Youth Day address. She urged them to pursue their goals with dedication and discipline.
"The progress of our nation depends entirely on the advancement of our youth," Gupta declared. She highlighted the critical role young people must play in achieving India's development goals by 2047.
The Chief Minister stressed that national development requires more than just government policies. She called for collective responsibility and active participation from all citizens.
Education Minister Outlines Broader Vision
Education Minister Ashish Sood, who also attended the event, outlined the government's comprehensive approach to education reform. He stated their commitment follows the principle of Antyodaya, ensuring benefits reach society's most disadvantaged members.
Sood announced significant progress on the long-stalled Narela Education City project. The project budget has increased dramatically from Rs 500 crore to Rs 1,300 crore and will now cover 160 acres.
The Education City will feature:
- Shared university campuses
- Modern auditoriums
- Extensive libraries
- Digital library facilities
- Advanced ICT laboratories
"Education will play a key role in shaping future leadership," Sood emphasized, explaining that the government aims to address educational challenges through thoughtful policy and effective implementation.
Scholarship Eligibility and Distribution
The Delhi Higher and Technical Education Assistance Scheme supports meritorious students from economically weaker sections. Eligibility requires:
- Passing Class XII from Delhi schools
- Achieving at least 75 percent marks
- Meeting prescribed income criteria
All scholarship funds transfer directly to beneficiaries' bank accounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer system. This ensures transparency and eliminates delays in financial support reaching students.
The scholarship distribution ceremony attracted numerous dignitaries including Education Department officials, university vice chancellors, education experts, and hundreds of students. Their presence underscored the importance Delhi places on supporting academic excellence among disadvantaged youth.
