Government Launches SHRESHTA Scheme for SC Students' Residential Education

• 11 Oct 2023

Recently, the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has introduced the "Scheme for Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas" (SHRESHTA) as a significant step towards enhancing educational opportunities and socio-economic development for Scheduled Castes (SCs) in India.

Key Points

• Objective of SHRESHTA: The primary goal of SHRESHTA is to expand the scope of government development initiatives and address service deficiencies in areas with a significant SC population, primarily within the education sector.
• Collaboration with Grant-in-Aid Institutions: The scheme aims to achieve its objectives through collaboration with grant-in-aid institutions operated by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and residential high schools that offer high-quality education.
• Holistic Development: SHRESHTA envisions creating an environment that fosters the socio-economic upliftment and holistic development of SC students while ensuring their future prospects.
• Two Modes of the Scheme: SHRESHTA is structured in two modes:
  • SHRESHTA Schools: This mode includes the selection of meritorious SC students through the National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA (NETS), conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
  • These selected students are admitted to the best private residential schools affiliated with CBSE/State Boards for grades 9 to 12.
  • The scheme covers the entire fee for each student, including school fees and hostel fees, based on annual income and specified fee amounts.
  • NGO/VO Operated Schools/Hostels: This mode is designed for schools and hostels operated by voluntary organizations (VOs) and NGOs, offering education up to class 12. Grants are provided to cover school fees and residential charges for SC students in these institutions.
• Government's Commitment: The SHRESHTA scheme underlines the government's commitment to ensuring quality education and holistic development opportunities for SC students.
• By addressing service gaps and promoting educational excellence, it seeks to empower SC students and support their socio-economic progress.