The Jharkhand government is set to introduce four new scholarship schemes simultaneously in the upcoming academic session. Among these, one scheme is specially designed for students pursuing technical education, and another for differently-abled and orphaned individuals.
Under the ‘Maanki Munda Scholarship Scheme’ for students in technical education institutions, those enrolled in diploma courses will receive an annual financial aid of Rs. 15,000, while students enrolled in degree courses will receive Rs. 30,000.
The initiative for scholarships for differently-abled individuals is crucial as per the All India Survey on Higher Education, where 771 differently-abled students enrolled, but only 77 managed to complete their programs.
Rahul Purwar, the Principal Secretary of the Department of Higher and Technical Education, announced these developments on Friday at the Information Bhavan Auditorium.
He revealed that a portal would soon be launched for the application process, following the success of the Guruji Student Credit Scheme, which garnered over a lakh applications during the Doorstep Campaign.
Additionally, preparations are underway to list 25 coaching institutions under the Eklavya Training Program for competitive exams. The Chief Minister’s Education Incentive Scheme is also in progress, aiming to enlist 45 coaching institutions for medical, engineering, and other exam preparations. Both schemes are expected to kick off by March. The draft for the Jharkhand Private University Bill has been prepared.
Moreover, the Science Center in Chiruandi, Ranchi, will be developed into a Science Center as part of the upgradation of the existing Vijñāna Bhavan. District Science Centers in Gumla, Lohardaga, Giridih, Daltonganj, Bokaro, Dhanbad, Hazaribagh, Devghar, and Dumka will undergo revitalization.
“Clock-Based Teachers to Receive Lump Sum Grant”
The state government has decided to increase the monthly remuneration for clock-based teachers in universities to Rs. 57,700. Similarly, contractual teachers in polytechnics will now receive Rs. 56,100 per month. These teachers are required not only to conduct classes but also engage in other academic activities.
“Financial Aid for NET and JET Qualifiers”
The state government will provide financial aid of Rs. 25,000 per month for NET-qualified candidates and Rs. 22,500 per month for JET-qualified candidates for up to four years. This support will be offered through the CM Fellowship Scheme for Academic Excellence.
“Other Initiatives in the Pipeline”
The government plans to establish a technology park in BIT Sindri, Dhanbad, and a biotechnology park in collaboration with the Indian government, costing approximately Rs. 40 crore, at Birsa Agricultural University, Kanke. A decision has also been made to construct a digital planetarium in Netarhat.
Furthermore, non-graded colleges failing to achieve a ranking for five consecutive years will be shut down.
“New Award Schemes to Commence”
Several award schemes are set to begin, including:
- Jharkhand State Research Award (for students)
- Jharkhand State Research Award (for teachers)
- Outstanding Contribution to Society in the Field of Higher Education
- Successful Implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 (Individual)
- Successful Implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 (Institution)
- Government Innovation Award
- Environmental, Social, and Administrative Guide (ESG Champion) Award
