SHILLONG, March 21: Chief Minister Conrad Sangma announced on Friday that the central government has released the final installment of scholarships worth Rs. 85.0779 crore under the ‘Umbrella Scheme of Post Matric Scholarship for ST Students’ for the academic session 2023-2024. The initiative is designed to support talented students from Scheduled Tribes (ST) pursuing higher education.
According to Sangma, a total of 76,755 students applied for the post-matric scheme. The scholarship amount will be distributed in three installments. The first installment of Rs. 42.32 crore, released on June 24, 2024, benefited 17,364 students, while the second installment of Rs. 66.67 crore, released on November 20, 2024, supported 32,064 students. The Chief Minister stated, "I am happy to share that today, the central government has released the last installment of scholarship amounting to Rs 85.0779 crore under the scheme Umbrella Scheme of Post Matric Scholarship for ST Students for the Academic Session 2023-2024." He further indicated that the final installment of Rs. 85.0779 crore will be disbursed to 27,327 students, and funds are expected to reflect in their accounts within the next 1-2 days.
Chief Minister Sangma emphasized the state government’s commitment to improving and accelerating the scholarship process each year, ensuring quicker support for talented students. He stated, "The state government is committed to improving and accelerating the scholarship process each year to ensure even quicker support for our talented students!" This initiative highlights the government’s focus on education and aims to provide opportunities for students from underprivileged backgrounds.
Despite the positive announcements, the BJP has voiced strong criticisms regarding the timeliness of the scholarship disbursement. Bernard N Marak, the BJP vice president and Tura MDC, expressed concern over the prolonged delays in releasing financial assistance to ST students. He labeled it a "betrayal of their rights and privileges," calling the situation unacceptable. Marak revealed that inquiries made with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs revealed that the central government had cleared the beneficiary list submitted by the state, yielding priority status. However, he noted that 90% of the funds provided by the Centre remained undistributed due to the state’s failure to contribute its mandatory 10% share.
Marak’s criticisms underline a growing frustration among the student community and their families, who rely on these funds to pursue their studies. As the elections approach, such issues often take center stage, making it imperative for the state government to address any shortcomings in the scholarship process.
The timely distribution of these scholarships is significant for many families feeling the pressure of education costs amid fluctuating economic conditions. With the final installment now on the way, it shapes an encouraging narrative for the students optimistic about advancing their education.
Moving forward, the responsibility lies with the state government to ensure that all financial obligations are met so that students do not face hardships again. The government’s proactive measures, particularly in its dedication to a hassle-free scholarship process, will likely be closely monitored not just by BJP representatives but also by those directly affected — the students themselves. Ensuring equitable access to educational funding can have profound effects on the success of students from marginalized communities in Meghalaya.
As Meghalaya moves ahead, the attention given to these scholarship initiatives may significantly influence perceptions of the state administration’s commitment to education and social equity. Ultimately, how well the state manages these funds will play a crucial role in fostering trust within the community—a trust that is essential for any government seeking to lead in a democratic society.
