What is the SHREYAS scheme, and what is its primary

Solution

Explanation: The SHREYAS scheme, officially known as the "Scheme for Higher Education Youth for Atmanirbhar Bharat," is a multifaceted program in India aimed at empowering students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) and Other Backward Classes (OBC). Since its initiation in 2014, the scheme has allocated over 2300 crore rupees to support the education of SC and OBC students. It comprises several sub-schemes, each designed to provide financial assistance and opportunities for SC and OBC students to access higher education and excel in their academic pursuits, thereby promoting their social and economic empowerment. One of the key sub-schemes under SHREYAS is the Free Coaching Scheme for SCs and OBCs. This sub-scheme has a specific objective, which is to offer high-quality coaching to economically disadvantaged SC and OBC candidates. The coaching is intended to help them prepare for competitive and entrance exams, thereby increasing their chances of securing jobs in both the public and private sectors. Moreover, this coaching also helps them gain admission to reputable technical and professional higher education institutions. The eligibility criteria for the Free Coaching Scheme are crucial to ensure that it reaches the right beneficiaries. The scheme is open to SC and OBC candidates with a total family income ceiling of 8 lakhs per annum. Notably, the allocation of slots under this scheme follows a 70:30 ratio between SC and OBC students, with 30% of slots specifically reserved for female candidates. From 2014-15 to 2022-23, a total of 109.77 crore rupees have been released under the Free Coaching Scheme. These funds have benefited a significant number of beneficiaries, reaching 19,995 students. Another vital sub-scheme under SHREYAS is the "Top Class Education for SCs." This program aims to promote and support quality education for SC students who are pursuing studies beyond the 12th class. Importantly, this support continues until the completion of the course, provided that the student maintains satisfactory performance throughout their academic journey. The eligibility criteria for this scheme include SC students with a total family income ceiling of 8 lakhs per annum. What makes this sub-scheme particularly significant is that it applies to various prestigious institutions in India, such as IIMs, IITs, NITs, AIIMS, and others.