The Uttar Pradesh government has launched a prestigious international scholarship programme named after former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The Chevening UP Atal Scholarship is designed to provide talented students from the state with an opportunity to pursue higher education in the United Kingdom with complete financial support.
Comprehensive Financial Assistance
The scheme covers almost all major expenses, including tuition fees, examination charges, accommodation, food, and annual travel between India and the UK. According to officials, the sponsorship cost per student is estimated at around Rs. 45–48 lakh. In its first phase, five students have been selected to undertake master’s degree programmes in the UK.
Collaborative Effort Between India and the UK
The scholarship is the result of a partnership between the Uttar Pradesh government and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). The agreement was signed at the residence of Chief Minister Mr. Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow. The Chief Minister underlined that the initiative aims to prepare the youth of Uttar Pradesh for future global leadership roles.
Shared Funding Model
The scheme, initially set to run for three years, will be jointly funded by the Uttar Pradesh government and the FCDO. Each party will contribute half of the total scholarship cost. British High Commissioner to India Ms. Lindy Cameron welcomed the collaboration and described it as a significant step towards strengthening educational ties between India and the United Kingdom.
