CHENNAI: Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa on Friday commenced distribution of bi-cycles worth `230.72 crore to 6.44 lakh to Plus One students during academic year 2014-15.
Of the total number of students, 3,57,600 are girls. For the first time since the launch of the scheme, distribution has started in the beginning of the academic year itself. The scheme was launched during 2001-2002 during Jayalalithaa’s previous tenure as the Chief Minister with a view to encourage girls continue their studies. It benefited students from SC/ST communities studying in Plus One and Plus Two classes. From 2005-06 onwards, the scheme was extended to all students studying Plus One in government and government-aided schools. Seven students received bi-cycles at a function held at the Secretariat on Friday and they thanked the Chief Minister for the gesture, an official release here said.