Research scholars across Tamil Nadu have made a fervent appeal to the state government, urging their inclusion in the free laptop distribution scheme. In a formal representation submitted to the authorities, these scholars emphasized that laptops are not merely convenient tools but indispensable assets for their rigorous academic pursuits.
Essential Academic Tool for Research Work
The scholars highlighted that their daily work involves complex tasks such as statistical data analysis, extensive literature reviews, thesis composition, and exhaustive journal research. Without reliable computing devices, these activities become significantly hindered, potentially delaying research outcomes and academic progress.
Personal Struggles Highlight the Need
K Revathy, a professor from Tirunelveli, shared her personal experience during her doctorate days in statistics. "During my research, I needed to study and review at least four research papers daily while simultaneously working on my own study. I faced tremendous difficulties in my first year due to a malfunctioning laptop and couldn't afford a replacement until my second year," she recounted. "Providing new laptops would benefit hundreds of researchers who are currently struggling with inadequate equipment."
Manageable Numbers and Financial Constraints
N Shanmugarajan, general secretary of the Tamil Nadu Research Scholar Association, provided context about the scale of this requirement. "The number of research scholars needing laptops would hardly exceed 10,000," he stated, suggesting that including them in the scheme would not create an overwhelming burden on resources.
An important point raised by the scholars is that not all PhD candidates receive stipends substantial enough to allocate funds for laptop purchases. This financial constraint makes government support through the free laptop scheme particularly crucial for ensuring equitable access to research tools.
Government Response Awaited
Officials from the Special Programme Implementation Department, which oversees the execution of the free laptop scheme, were unavailable for comment regarding this request from research scholars. The scholars' representation now awaits formal consideration and response from the concerned authorities.
The free laptop scheme, originally designed to benefit students at various educational levels, now faces this new demand from the research community who argue that their academic contributions deserve similar support infrastructure to enhance Tamil Nadu's research capabilities and output.
