BHUBANESWAR: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Monday launched a new scheme, Anwesha, under which 5,000 SC and ST children would annually be enrolled into Standard I in leading private schools in urban areas of the State.
The Government would bear all expenses for education of the students under Anwesha which will be implemented in 17 districts. The expenses for fees, uniform, books, hostel accommodation as well transportation will be sponsored by the Government.
Naveen kicked off the scheme at Sargiphul-2015 function, the annual festival for SC and ST children, organised by Scheduled Tribe and Scheduled Caste Development Department here. He also distributed kits to the students.
Speaking on the occasion, he said the State Government has been promoting talents among the students of tribal districts in various fields - from art to sports.
Under the newly-rolled out scheme, Naveen said the Government aims to enrol a total of 50,000 SC and ST students in phases. “Currently, about 3.5 lakh ST and SC students are availing residential education facilities through the hostels established by the Government. Another two lakh students will be covered under the residential education programmes in the days to come and hostels will be constructed for the purpose, he added.
ST and SC Development Minister Lal Behari Himirika, Minister of State (Tribal Welfare) Sudam Marandi, Minister (Scheduled Caste Welfare) W&CD (Mission Shakti) Snehangini Chhuria and Department Secretary Surendra Kumar were present.