PM-Vidyalaxmi: Empowering Students Through Education Loans

Overview of the PM-Vidyalaxmi Scheme

• The PM-Vidyalaxmi scheme is a new initiative approved by the Indian government.
• It aims to enhance access to quality higher education for meritorious students.
• The scheme has a budget of Rs 3,600 crore for the period 2024-25 to 2030-31.
• It targets students enrolled in the top 860 higher education institutions across India.

Key Features and Eligibility Criteria

• The scheme provides collateral-free, guarantor-free education loans up to Rs 10 lakh.
• Students from families with an annual income of up to Rs 8 lakh are eligible for a 3% interest subvention on these loans.
• For loans up to Rs 7.5 lakh, the government will provide a 75% credit guarantee to encourage banks to expand coverage.
• The scheme prioritizes students from government institutions and those enrolled in technical or professional courses.
• The application process will be entirely digital through the centralized PM-Vidyalaxmi portal.

Complementary Schemes and Expected Impact

• The PM-Vidyalaxmi scheme will work alongside existing initiatives like the Central Sector Interest Subsidy (CSIS) and the Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Education Loans (CGFSEL).
• Under CSIS, students from families earning up to Rs 4.5 lakh will continue to receive full interest subvention during the moratorium period.
• The PM-Vidyalaxmi scheme aims to assist over 22 lakh students annually, providing them access to quality higher education.
• The scheme is expected to benefit around 7 lakh new students each year, reflecting the government's commitment to supporting meritorious students.