SHRESHTA Scheme: Bridging the Education Gap for Scheduled Caste Students in India
An analysis of the Scheme for Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas and its potential impact on educational equity.
Kartavya News Desk
Key Features
The SHRESHTA scheme provides residential education to meritorious Scheduled Caste students in Classes IX and XI. It operates through two modes: Mode I (private residential schools) and Mode II (strengthening existing government schools). Selection is based on the National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA (NETS), and eligibility requires an annual family income of up to ₹2.5 lakh.
Implementation and Monitoring
The scheme is implemented from 2023-24 to 2025-26. Seat allocation is carried out through web-based counseling based on NETS merit and student preferences. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment monitors the number of students admitted and participating schools across States/UTs.