Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Thawarchand Gehlot has said, Central government is committed for the welfare of scheduled caste students as it has made a historic change in the scholarship available to students of this community pursuing higher education.

Briefing media in New Delhi today, he said the government has approved Rs. 59,048 Crore post matric scholarship scheme for over four crore SC students for the next five years.

Mr. Gehlot said, Central Government will spend 60 per cent of the scholarship amount and  remaining 40 per cent will be spent by the State governments. 

Mr Gehlot said, it is estimated that 1.36 Crore SC students, who are currently not continuing their education beyond 10th standards would be brought into the higher education system through this initiative. 

The Minister said the money will be released through DBT mode into the bank accounts of the students. 

Mr. Gehlot added that the list with the account number of the students will be sought from the state governments.