Context: The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment recently highlighted the Scheme for Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas (SHRESHTA).

Key Highlights of SHRESHTA:

Objective:

SHRESHTA aims to address the educational service gap in areas dominated by Scheduled Castes (SCs) by providing high-quality education, socio-economic upliftment, and overall development for SC students.

Admission Criteria:

Admission is offered in Class 9 and Class 11 of CBSE/State-affiliated private schools.

Eligibility:

Students from SCs in Class 8th and 10th with an annual income of up to Rs 2.5 lakh are eligible.

Operating Procedure:

Mode 1: SHRESHTA Schools:

Selection Process:

• Meritorious SC students are chosen through the National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA (NETS) conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
• Admitted to the best CBSE/State Board-affiliated private residential schools in classes 9th and 11th.

Financial Support:

The Department covers total fees, including school and hostel fees, amounting to Rs. 1,00,000 to Rs. 1,35,000 from class 9th to 12th.

Bridge Course:

• A bridge course is offered outside regular school hours to enhance students' adaptability.
• The Department covers 10% of the annual fee for the bridge course.

Monitoring:

• Regular monitoring of students' progress by the Ministry.

Mode 2: NGO/VO Operated Schools/Hostels:

Grants:

• Schools/Hostels run by VOs/NGOs with classes up to 12th grade receive grants for school fees and residential charges for SC students.
• Grants range from Rs. 27,000 to Rs. 55,000 per student based on the type of school.

Monitoring:

• Regular monitoring of students' progress by the Ministry.
• Institutions are required to disclose performance on their websites and the e-Anudaan/online portal, ensuring transparency.
• Installation of cameras in institutions for live feeds and periodic field visits by inspection teams.

Impact (2023-24):

• 7,543 beneficiaries.
• Admissions: 2,564 students admitted to 142 Private Residential Schools.
• Rs. 30.55 Crore reimbursed for school fees.