Key facts
- Assam government launched free transport services for students in tea garden areas.
- The initiative targets marginalized communities and aims to improve school attendance.
- Over 9,700 students in 198 schools across 11 districts will benefit.
- The program includes financial support of Rs 5,400 per student for the academic year.
- Local transport arrangements will be made through school management committees.
The Assam government has initiated a free transport service aimed at students from marginalized communities residing in tea garden areas. This program, launched under the Samagra Siksha Assam initiative, seeks to ensure that transportation challenges do not hinder the education of these students.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma described the initiative as a crucial 'last-mile effort' to support students in these regions. The program is designed to improve regular school attendance by providing safe and free transportation. It is expected to benefit over 9,700 students from classes 1 to 10 across 198 schools in 11 districts.
Education Minister Ranoj Pegu stated that the initiative is specifically targeted at deprived communities to enhance school attendance. The program is scheduled to run until March 31, 2027, with a break during the July summer vacation period. Each student will receive financial support of Rs 5,400 for the academic year, and local transport arrangements will be managed by the respective school management committees.