The government has started a scheme named “Ambedkar Overseas Vidya Nidhi” for SC and ST students. Under the scheme the post graduate students are sent overseas for higher education.
Meritorious students of Andhra Pradesh can now pursue higher education in Germany, New Zealand, Sweden, Netherlands, France, Denmark, Russia, Philippines, Kazakhistan and China with financial aid from the government. Earlier, the list was only limited to USA, UK, Singapore and Australia.
The state government will give a grant of Rs 10 lakh in two installments. Student has to avail another Rs 5 lakh educational loan with the help of SC Corporation.
Although the move to uplift SC ST classes is welcomed, the question arises, are such measure not required to eliminate backwardness of minorities especially Muslims? Several reports claimed that Muslims are the most backward community. If the Muslims are provided financial aid on par with SC ST to study aboard it will positively affect the educational conditions of Muslims. Public representatives must raise voice regarding this issue in the houses.
Siasat news