Guwahati: In a significant move to combat child marriages and promote female education, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced a new initiative on Wednesday.
The state government will provide monthly stipends to girl students from Class 11 to post-graduation over the next five years under the scheme named ‘Nijut Moina’.
Speaking at a press conference, Chief Minister Sarma detailed that the scheme, recently approved by the cabinet, is projected to cost Rs 1,500 crore over five years, benefiting approximately 10 lakh girls.
“Assam government has announced today a unique scheme to fight against early marriage of girl students, and also to inspire them to continue their education up to the post-graduate level,” Sarma stated.
The stipend amounts will be Rs 1,000 per month for girls in Classes 11 and 12, Rs 1,250 for degree students, and Rs 2,500 for those pursuing post-graduate studies. These amounts will be transferred to the girls’ accounts on the 11th of each month. Sarma emphasized that this initiative aims to prevent child marriages and support the education of girls across Assam.
“A married girl will not get the benefit. The only exception will be those married girls who are enrolled in PG courses. They will also benefit,” he clarified.
Sarma explained that the primary objective of the scheme is to delay the marriage of girls, thereby allowing them to become financially independent and capable of supporting themselves and their families.
“The scheme will increase the gross enrollment ratio of girls substantially,” he asserted.
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The scheme is inclusive, covering all girls regardless of their financial background, except for daughters of ministers, MLAs, MPs, and those studying in private colleges. Stipends will be provided for 10 months each year, excluding June and July during the summer vacation.
Additionally, Sarma announced that world-class coaching facilities will be made available to students from poor and middle-class families to further support their educational pursuits.
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