Engineering, medical education now more accessible to tribal students, says Gujarat CM

Dahod: Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel on Wednesday said the expansion of science, engineering and medical education facilities in tribal regions has enabled students from remote areas to pursue professional careers that were once beyond their reach. Patel was speaking at an event on the second day of the state's school enrolment drive (Shala Praveshotsav) in Dahod district, according to an official release.

"While science education facilities were previously limited, engineering and medical institutions are now available at the district level, enabling tribal students to fulfil their dreams of becoming doctors and engineers," Patel said. He said the government has implemented several important schemes to promote higher education, especially in science. Patel also said the income limit for tribal students has been increased from Rs 2.5 lakh to Rs 6 lakh annually to enable them to avail of the benefit of scholarship programs.

Under the Namo Lakshmi Yojana, girls studying in classes 9 to 12 receive financial assistance of up to Rs 50,000. Under the 'Namo Saraswati Yojana', students studying science in classes 11 and 12 receive assistance of up to Rs 50,000," he said. The girls who complete classes 11 and 12 in the science stream can receive assistance of up to Rs 75,000 through various government schemes, Patel added.

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On the second day of the 24th school enrollment drive, Patel enrolled more than 300 children in the schools at Moti Kharaj, Rahdungari, and Gangarda villages in Dahod. "The state government has ensured a bright future for students through modern facilities and quality education. Schools are now equipped with smart classrooms, computer labs, internet connectivity, and modern science laboratories," he said, adding that these facilities have enabled students from rural and remote areas to access modern education.

Patel further said that government officials and education department staff were visiting homes, understanding the challenges faced by children who were dropping out, and encouraging them to return to school. Patel also appealed to parents to actively participate in their children's future by regularly visiting schools and discussing their progress with teachers.