Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma releases Rs 130 crore scholarship for 70,000 students

Guwahati: Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma on Saturday released the second and final instalments of the Umbrella Post-Matric Scholarship for the 2024-2025 academic year at a function held at the District Auditorium in Tura.

The scholarship, amounting to Rs 130 crore, will benefit around 70,000 students.

The funds are being released from state resources as the central government’s allocation has not yet been received.

Sangma stated that the scholarship could not be released earlier due to system limitations, but after discussions with the Government of India, a process was created to allow advance disbursement.

He advised students to verify that their bank accounts are linked to Aadhaar to ensure the timely receipt of funds through Meghalaya Rural Bank.

Emphasising education as a top priority, the Chief Minister also announced upcoming reforms to address long-standing issues faced by ad hoc and SSA teachers, which are expected to be implemented from the next financial year.

Sangma presented the government’s vision for the state, highlighting flagship programmes for youth, including CM Elevate, YESS Meghalaya, Prime, MGMP, STAR Program, and Hello Meghalaya, along with initiatives in sports, music, and research.

He stressed that youth skill development and entrepreneurship are crucial to Meghalaya’s growth, stating that young people will play a central role in the state’s long-term plans, including achieving a $10 billion economy.

Education Minister Lahkmen Rymbui described the event as a milestone in fulfilling government commitments to students, adding that the administration remains committed to making education accessible to all.

The programme was attended by Commissioner & Secretary of Education Vijay Kumar Mantri, Director of Higher & Technical Education Hazel DB Sangma, other officials, institution heads, teachers, and students.

Approximately 7,000 students participated online from 200 locations across the state.