Odisha Launches Saheed Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Scheme to Reduce Dropout Rates Among Tribal Students

The Odisha government is taking a proactive step towards reducing dropout rates among tribal students by launching the Saheed Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Scheme. This initiative, named after a revered freedom fighter, aims to provide financial assistance to encourage continued education among Scheduled Tribe (ST) students in the state. The announcement was made by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Mukesh Mahaling during a recent State Assembly session. 

Financial Incentives to Combat Dropouts 

Under the new scheme, an annual grant of ₹5,000 will be provided to every ST student who successfully passes Class 8 or Class 10 and enrolls in Class 9 or Class 11. This financial support is designed to help students and their families manage educational expenses, thereby reducing the economic burden that often forces students to drop out. The scheme is set to benefit three lakh tribal students across Odisha, marking a significant effort to improve educational outcomes for this vulnerable population. 

Significant Budget Allocation 

To ensure the effective implementation of the scheme, the Odisha government has allocated ₹156 crore. The substantial financial backing highlights the government’s commitment to addressing the long-standing issue of high dropout rates among tribal students, particularly at the secondary and higher secondary levels. The scheme is expected to be a game-changer in keeping tribal students engaged in their academic journey. 

Addressing a Pressing Issue 

Odisha has one of the highest dropout rates in secondary and higher secondary education across India. The dropout issue has been a persistent concern for the state government, especially in tribal-dominated regions. By introducing the Saheed Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Scheme, the state aims to create a positive impact on the education system and encourage students to pursue higher studies. This scheme is part of the government’s broader efforts to bridge the educational gap and ensure that every child has access to quality education, regardless of their socio-economic background. 

This initiative also reflects Odisha’s continued focus on educational reform, particularly for marginalized communities. As the state moves forward with this plan, it will be closely watched as a potential model for other states facing similar challenges with tribal education. 

In conclusion, the Saheed Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Scheme is a timely and much-needed intervention to address the high dropout rates among tribal students in Odisha. With strong financial backing and clear goals, the scheme promises to bring a significant change in the educational landscape of the state, helping thousands of students continue their education and secure a better future.