Guwahati, Oct 6: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma unveiled the Nijut Moina scheme on Sunday, a significant initiative aimed at combating child marriage by providing financial assistance for girls’ education. With an allocation of Rs 1,500 crore, the scheme plans to support 10 lakh girl students, benefiting over 1.6 lakh in its first year.
The initiative offers monthly scholarships of over Rs 1,000 for those pursuing graduation and Rs 2,500 for post-graduate students. Sarma emphasized that the program aims to empower young women, allowing them to pursue education without relying on their families.
One key condition of the scheme is that female students must remain unmarried until completing their postgraduate studies. To ensure the benefits reach those who truly need them, the program excludes daughters of MPs, MLAs, and ministers. Additionally, beneficiaries must attend regular classes and perform well academically.
Sarma described the Nijut Moina scheme as a transformative measure in the fight against child marriage, highlighting the state’s previous successes in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates. He stated that this initiative will help eradicate child marriage from Assam.
Under the scheme, Class 11 female students will receive Rs 1,000 per month for up to 10 months, totaling Rs 10,000 annually. Graduation students will get Rs 1,250 per month, amounting to Rs 12,500 per year, while post-graduate students will receive Rs 2,500 per month, totaling Rs 25,000 annually.
The Nijut Moina scheme represents a proactive effort by the Assam government to enhance educational access and address social issues, fostering an environment where young women can achieve academic success and live fulfilling lives free from early marriage.
