Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has announced that next year, meritorious students who score top marks in 12th grade will receive laptops from the government, instead of just monetary assistance. He mentioned that many times, the financial aid provided for purchasing laptops was spent on other purposes, so they aim to directly provide laptops from renowned companies to the top students from next year.
Earlier, CM Yadav transferred ₹25,000 each to the bank accounts of 94,234 students under the "Talented Student Encouragement Scheme" at the Kushabhau Thakre Convention Center in Bhopal. He shared that 60% of the beneficiaries are girls, with 56,246 girls and 37,988 boys receiving the amount for laptops. This highlights that girls are not only on par with boys but are also excelling in their studies. Now, boys must strengthen their position.
CM Yadav also pointed out that this year, 52% of the beneficiaries were from government schools, while 48% came from private schools. This marks the first time that government school students outnumber private school students, a result of combined efforts from the school education department, teachers, and parents.
The CM emphasized that a laptop is not just a decorative item but a real key to knowledge. He highlighted that the three essential companions in life are a book, a laptop, and a teacher.
During the event, the Chief Minister interacted with the students and asked why none of them considered becoming a leader or serving the nation through politics. He encouraged students to aspire to become leaders, stating that although becoming a doctor, engineer, or IAS officer is valuable, society also needs good leaders.
He referred to Subhas Chandra Bose's sacrifice and determination, mentioning how Bose had passed the ICS exam, only to tear up the degree, symbolizing his dedication to India's freedom. The CM emphasized that self-respect is the ultimate strength that propels the nation forward.
Among the beneficiaries was Dhanya Sahu from Ashoknagar's Mungawali, who expressed her desire to pursue a career in teaching. CM Yadav encouraged her, saying that teaching is a noble path.
Similarly, Sakshi Vishwakarma from Umaria shared her excitement about receiving the laptop, noting how this will help her in her CA studies. She mentioned that many families face financial struggles, and such aid is a great support for further education.
Under the Chief Minister's encouragement scheme, students who score 75% or more in the 12th standard exam are eligible for laptops. The government provides a one-time sum of ₹25,000 for students to buy their preferred laptops and submit the purchase bill to the school principal. In 2023-24, 94,000 students will receive laptops, with a total expenditure of ₹238 crore. The scheme, which started in 2009-2010, initially had an eligibility criterion of 85% marks, but it was later reduced to 75%.