In a landmark move aimed at encouraging educational empowerment among Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST) students, the Karnataka government has decided to increase the incentive funds for SC/ST candidates pursuing studies in top national institutions. The announcement was made by the state’s Social Welfare Minister, H C Mahadevappa.
In a significant policy shift, the state has raised the incentive amount for students studying in premier institutes like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), and National Institutes of Technology (NITs) from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 2 lakh.
A Boost for Higher Education
Minister Mahadevappa expressed that this decision is expected to significantly enhance the academic achievements and aspirations of students from SC and ST communities. In an official release, he stated, “This move will encourage students from underprivileged backgrounds to aim higher and excel in their respective fields. It is our belief that education is the key to socio-economic empowerment, and through this scheme, we aim to bridge the gap in higher education opportunities for these communities.”
The minister also announced a one-time aid of Rs 25 lakh for SC students who achieve more than 95 per cent marks in their Pre-University Certificate (PUC) examination and secure a management quota seat in an MBBS course through the NEET entrance exam.
Additional Support for MBBS Students
In another major announcement, Mahadevappa confirmed that SC students pursuing MBBS degrees who secure more than 60 per cent marks in their first year would also receive an incentive of Rs 25 lakh. This initiative seeks to support SC/ST students in medical fields, where access to quality education and resources often remains a challenge.
“These steps are aimed at ensuring that students from the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes do not face financial or systemic barriers while pursuing higher education at India’s most prestigious institutions,” Mahadevappa added.
Minister’s Call for Active Participation in Nation Building
The minister also urged SC/ST students in institutes like IITs and IIMs to actively participate in nation-building and contribute to the development of a prosperous and powerful nation. Mahadevappa emphasised, “Students from these communities should not only focus on academics but also on contributing to the broader goals of national development. Their success is crucial for the progress of our society.”
Social Media Post Highlights the Government’s Commitment
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Minister H C Mahadevappa elaborated on the government’s long-standing commitment to empowering SC and ST students:
“We believe in the words of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, who said that an educated society is a hopeful society. This government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, continues to implement policies that uphold these principles. The increased incentive funds are part of our efforts to ensure that higher education becomes a common reality, even for students from marginalised communities.”
He further added, “This decision marks a significant milestone in our mission to create equal opportunities for all, and we urge students to take full advantage of these new incentives.”
Summary of Increased Incentive Schemes
