Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on October 17 transferred scholarships worth ₹297.95 crore to over 10 lakh students across the state under the Post-Matric and Pre-Matric Scholarship Programme, reaffirming his government’s commitment to making education accessible to all.

Speaking at a ceremony in Lucknow, the Chief Minister described education as the “foundation of a progressive and self-reliant nation,” citing Dr B.R. Ambedkar’s belief that learning is the key to empowerment and nation-building.

“Education is the greatest investment in our youth and in India’s future,” Yogi said. “We are determined that no deserving student, particularly from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, or Other Backward Classes, should have their future compromised because of financial barriers.”

According to the Chief Minister’s Office, a total of 10,28,205 students benefited from the direct transfer of scholarships under the scheme.

Beneficiaries on the rise

Highlighting the state’s progress, Yogi noted that the number of scholarship recipients has risen sharply in recent years—from 46 lakh in 2016–17 to over 62 lakh today. “The scholarship programme aims not only to support education but also to encourage students to channel their energy meaningfully toward the development of society and the nation,” he said.

‘Education is the path to self-reliance’

Invoking Dr Ambedkar’s legacy, the Chief Minister reminded the audience that earlier generations had to overcome immense challenges to access education. “Today, there is no shortage of resources,” he added. “The government has launched several initiatives to ensure that every deserving student can achieve their potential.”

Expanding opportunities through state initiatives

Yogi also spotlighted development initiatives like the Abhyudaya Coaching scheme, which provides free competitive exam coaching in every district. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for guiding India’s welfare-driven growth over the past decade, noting that “25 crore people across the country and 6 crore in Uttar Pradesh have risen above the poverty line.”

Minister of State for Social Welfare (Independent Charge) Asim Arun, who also addressed the event, lauded the government’s education and welfare efforts, calling them instrumental in transforming lives and expanding access to opportunity across the state.