In News:

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has ordered an inquiry after some intended beneficiaries of the ‘Taruner Swapna’ scheme, an initiative of the TMC government, alleged that they did not receive Rs 10,000 meant for the purchase of tablets (mobile device with a touchscreen display, rechargeable battery, and mobile operating system).

Overview:

• Aimed at bridging the digital divide by providing ?10,000 to Class 11 and 12 students in West Bengal for purchasing smartphones/tablets.
• In FY 2024-25, ?900 crore allocated for the scheme, targeting 16 lakh students.
• The main objective of the scheme is to provide scholarship to the students. So that the student can use their scholarship to buy a smartphone and tablet and can get education through online medium.
• This scheme will prove to be effective in making the future of the students bright and will also prove to be effective in strengthening them technically.
• Eligibility criteria for the scheme:
  • Applicant must be a permanent resident of West Bengal State.
  • The applicant should be a student.
  • Students of 11th and 12th will be eligible for this scheme.
  • The annual income of the family of the applicant student should not exceed Rs 2 lakh.
  • Students with backlog are not eligible as this grant is for one-time only.
• This scheme will make the students technically strong and they will be able to improve their future with technology.
• Students of government/government-aided/sponsored schools and madrassas can avail assistance.
• TarunerSwapno Yojana will bridge the digital divide among students and facilitate modern education.