TIRUCHY: Participation of children with special needs in formal education has increased significantly in Tiruchy, with enrolment rising by over 15% in the past three years, following sustained door-to-door outreach and targeted financial assistance schemes. The district, under the Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, recently released Rs 54.67 lakh directly to students under the girl child stipend and home-based education programmes, benefiting more than 2,600 children.
Under the girl child stipend scheme, Rs 34.2 lakh was credited to the bank accounts of 1,710 girls at Rs 200 per month for 10 months through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Officials said girls with special needs remain among the most vulnerable, as many parents hesitate to send them to school due to safety concerns, mobility issues and social stigma.
The stipend has helped ease such fears and encouraged families to ensure regular attendance. Simultaneously, Rs 20.47 lakh was released to 899 children under the Home-Based Education (HBE) scheme, which supports students whose physical conditions restrict regular school attendance. The assistance, also provided at Rs 200 per month for 10 months, is primarily used to purchase study materials, learning aids and basic educational resources.
“These children are especially vulnerable. Financial support combined with personal follow-ups has made a tangible difference in their participation,” an official from the Education Department said. Home-based education has emerged as a critical support mechanism for children with severe disabilities. Block Resource Persons regularly visit students at home to provide academic guidance, monitor progress and counsel parents on continuing education practices.
Authorities stressed that the twin approach of financial aid and personalised academic outreach is central to strengthening inclusive education. With DBT ensuring timely and transparent disbursal, the district aims to further improve retention and learning outcomes, particularly among girls and children with special needs, reinforcing efforts to ensure that no child is left behind.