Adityanath Transfers ₹944.55 Crore in Scholarships, Criticizes Previous Governments for Nepotism and Graft
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, in a significant move on the eve of Republic Day, has directly transferred ₹944.55 crore towards scholarships and fee reimbursement for the financial year 2025–26 into the bank accounts of 18,78,726 students across the state. The transfer was executed through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system, ensuring transparency and efficiency in the disbursement process.
Allegations of Past Mismanagement and Corruption
Addressing a gathering at a scholarship distribution programme in Lucknow, Adityanath launched a sharp critique against previous governments in Uttar Pradesh. He alleged that nepotism, corruption, and administrative negligence under prior administrations had systematically prevented welfare schemes, including crucial scholarships, from reaching the deserving and needy sections of society.
"Those who wake up after sunrise find even the idea of sunrise meaningless. Such people can neither serve the poor nor think about the welfare of the state," the Chief Minister remarked, implying that past governments lacked the vision and commitment to prioritize education for underprivileged children.
A Step Towards Social Justice and Inclusive Development
Extending Republic Day greetings, Adityanath described the scholarship distribution as a "significant step towards social justice and inclusive development." He emphasized that the initiative reflects the current government's unwavering commitment to ensuring that education reaches the last person in society, without any discrimination.
"When the government’s intent is honest, and policies are transparent, corruption can be effectively eliminated. In the past, scholarship schemes were marred by corruption at multiple levels, be it flawed intent, nepotism or departmental malpractices. Today, with a single click, scholarships reached nearly 19 lakh students across all categories without any discrimination," he added, highlighting the transformative impact of DBT in curbing graft.
Empowering Youth and Strengthening Education Infrastructure
Adityanath cited the example of a young woman beneficiary who, after availing the scholarship, is now employed as a computer assistant at UPRVUNL. He noted that such initiatives are empowering the youth, making them self-reliant and active participants in nation-building.
The Chief Minister also detailed broader educational reforms under his administration:
- Operation Kayakalp: Transforming council schools with improved infrastructure, teacher availability, basic facilities, and quality education.
- Holistic Education Ecosystem: Strengthening through pre-primary education in Anganwadi centres, the Poshan Mission, Kasturba Gandhi schools, Atal Residential Schools, and composite schools.
- Competitive Exam Support: Providing facilities for NEET, JEE, and UPSC preparation under the Abhyudaya Coaching Yojana.
Focus on Skill Development and Sports
Emphasizing holistic development, Adityanath stated that the government is focusing on:
- Skill development, robotics, and drone technology.
- Developing playgrounds in every village and mini stadiums at the block level.
- Constructing the Major Dhyan Chand Sports University in Meerut.
He further informed that crores of people have benefited from other welfare schemes, including old-age pensions, disability pensions, the Chief Minister’s Mass Marriage Scheme, and the National Family Benefit Scheme, underscoring a comprehensive approach to social welfare.
