Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government has announced a significant overhaul in the scholarship scheme for students enrolled in Sanskrit schools across the state. In a move aimed at expanding support and improving access to education, the government has decided to eliminate the previous income-based eligibility requirement and increase the scholarship amounts.
The decision was made during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The new policy, which marks the first revision of the scholarship scheme in over two decades, will provide increased financial support to students from Sanskrit schools. Previously, scholarships were limited to students from families earning less than Rs 50,000 annually, a requirement that has now been removed.
Under the revised scheme, students in Prathama (classes 6, 7, and 8) will receive monthly scholarships of Rs 50 and Rs 75, respectively. Students in classes 9 and 10, previously receiving Rs 50 per month, will now receive Rs 100. Those in classes 11 and 12, who used to get Rs 80 per month, will now receive Rs 200. The increase in scholarship amounts aims to provide better support to students pursuing Sanskrit education, many of whom come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Secondary Education Minister Gulab Devi announced that the new provisions will benefit 1,21,573 students currently enrolled in 517 Sanskrit schools across Uttar Pradesh. The revision is expected to cost the state exchequer over Rs 19.65 crore. For the current financial year, scholarship applications will be accepted offline, with an online application system set to be introduced in the next financial year.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna highlighted that this move will make a significant difference for students who previously struggled with the financial burden of education. He also noted that 13 proposals were approved in the recent cabinet meeting, reflecting a broader effort to address various educational and infrastructural needs.
In related news, Tourism Minister Jaiveer Singh announced a new strategy for managing tourist houses operated by the department. To address financial losses and improve services, these properties will be handed over to private management for an initial period of 15 years, with an option for a further extension of 15 years. This initiative aims to enhance the facilities and overall tourist experience.
The government’s updated scholarship scheme represents a major step towards supporting students in Sanskrit schools and making education more accessible. By removing the income eligibility criteria and increasing the scholarship amounts, the state aims to alleviate financial pressures on students and their families. The planned online system for scholarship applications will further streamline the process and ensure broader access to support.