Himachal to Give Grants to Daughters of Widows for Higher Studies

The Himachal Pradesh government announced on Friday that it has expanded the Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Yojna, now providing financial assistance to daughters of widows pursuing higher education both within and outside the state. The scheme supports eligible girls up to 27 years of age in professional courses.

Under the revised provisions, beneficiaries enrolled in professional courses at government institutions outside Himachal can receive Rs 3,000 per month for up to 10 months to cover rent or paying guest accommodations if government hostel facilities are unavailable. The support extends to courses in engineering, medical and allied health sciences, law, business management, computer applications, and vocational programs under the SCVT.

Previously, the scheme offered monthly financial assistance to children of eligible women up to 18 years of age, covering tuition, hostel charges, and other educational expenses for students in government institutions within the state. The expansion now addresses the challenges faced by students pursuing higher education beyond state borders.

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Currently, 504 girls aged 18-27 are benefiting from the scheme, and the government anticipates that around 20% of them may enroll in professional courses under the new provisions. To meet this demand, an additional annual budget of approximately Rs 1 crore has been allocated.

For the current fiscal year, a total of Rs 31.01 crore has been earmarked for the Indira Gandhi Sukh Shiksha Yojna, of which Rs 22.96 crore has already been utilized as of February 3. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu emphasised that the scheme aims to empower vulnerable sections of society and foster self-reliance through sustained financial and logistical support.

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