Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed that this initiative will commence on February 1. Eligible students will receive monthly financial support directly into their bank accounts. The Chief Minister emphasized that this scheme fulfills a long-standing promise made to male students, with the primary goal of alleviating financial pressure and allowing students to focus entirely on their studies.

Financial Assistance Details

Under this scheme, male students enrolled in undergraduate programs will receive ₹1,000 per month, while postgraduate students will be granted ₹2,000 monthly.

Eligibility Criteria

According to the information provided, students whose families have an annual income of less than ₹4 lakh will qualify for this scheme. However, students from families with an income exceeding ₹4 lakh or those who are children of government employees will not be eligible for this financial aid.

Importance of the Scheme

It is noteworthy that data presented in the Lok Sabha for the year 2023-24 indicates an unemployment rate of 14.1% among youth aged 15 to 29 in the state. The government believes that investing in education and skill development will significantly enhance employment opportunities.

Expansion of Existing Initiatives

The 'Babu Asoni' scheme is seen as an extension of the state government's initiatives that have primarily focused on female students. Through the 'Nijut Moina' scheme, financial assistance is provided to girls from higher secondary to postgraduate levels, resulting in increased enrollment and a reduction in child marriages.

The Assam government asserts that this new initiative will help reduce dropout rates in higher education and better prepare students for future employment opportunities.