Patna: In a major boost to higher education among marginalised communities, Bihar’s Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Welfare Minister Lakhendra Paswan announced that SC and ST students from Bihar pursuing education abroad will be provided scholarships under the National Overseas Scheme.
The announcement followed a meeting held in New Delhi between Minister Lakhendra Paswan and Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Dr. Virendra Kumar, along with senior officials of the Government of India. During the meeting, several welfare and development schemes related to SC–ST communities were discussed in detail.
Centre Agrees to Scholarship Proposal
Minister Paswan presented a proposal seeking scholarship support for Bihar’s SC–ST students planning to study overseas. The Union Minister expressed his consent to the proposal, paving the way for financial assistance that will help deserving students access international education opportunities. The move is expected to significantly enhance academic advancement and global exposure for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Demand for New SC–ST Hostels in Bihar
During the discussions, the Bihar minister also highlighted the need for new hostels for SC–ST students to support their educational progress within the state. He requested central assistance of ₹3.5 to ₹4 lakh per student for hostel construction—amounting to ₹4 crore for 100 students and ₹8 crore for 200 students. The proposal was appreciated and agreed to by the Union Minister.
Support for SC-Dominated Villages Under PM AjeY Scheme
Minister Paswan further proposed financial assistance under the Pradhan Mantri Adarsh Gram Yojana for villages with 40 percent or more SC population or over 500 SC residents. He suggested providing ₹20 lakh per village as gap-funding, which also received approval from the Union Minister.
Focus on Infrastructure in SC–ST Hamlets
Union Minister Dr. Virendra Kumar advised the Bihar government to identify villages under the Village Development Plan and submit proposals to the Centre. Based on recommendations, solar lighting infrastructure and other development projects can be included in SC–ST hamlets to improve living conditions and basic amenities.
Strengthening Welfare Through Centre–State Coordination
The meeting underlined strong cooperation between the Bihar and Central governments to improve education, infrastructure, and socio-economic development of Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities. The initiatives aim to ensure inclusive growth and provide equal opportunities to students and villages across Bihar.
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