Chhattisgarh CM Announces Interest-Free Loans for Students in Maoist-Affected Districts

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai of Chhattisgarh announced interest-free loans for economically weaker students in Maoist-affected districts under the 'Chief Minister's Higher Education Loan Interest Subsidy Scheme'. The initiative aims to improve access to technical and vocational education, with loans capped at Rs 4 lakhs.

In a noteworthy initiative aimed at broadening educational access for economically weaker students in Chhattisgarh's Maoist-affected areas, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has declared the provision of interest-free loans for technical and vocational training. The Chief Minister has instructed the launch of a targeted campaign to ensure maximum student participation under the 'Chief Minister's Higher Education Loan Interest Subsidy Scheme.'

The directive also extends to other districts where economically weaker students will receive loans at a 1% interest rate for pursuing higher technical and vocational education. Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma confirmed that the Department of Technical Education has been designated as the nodal body for executing this scheme.

This program covers 35 technical and vocational courses at different educational levels. The scheme offers interest subsidies for loans up to Rs 4 lakhs. Eligible students whose families earn less than Rs 2 lakhs annually will pay only 1% interest, provided they maintain timely repayments post-moratorium. The government will cover the remaining interest. Notably, students from districts like Bastar and Dantewada will receive interest-free loans, ensuring broader educational opportunities in these areas.

Qualifications include permanent residency in Chhattisgarh and enrollment in recognized courses. Family income must be certified not to exceed Rs 2 lakhs. The scheme mandates regular repayment schedules, with exceptions for medical interruptions up to one year. Expelled or dropout students will lose eligibility.

(With inputs from agencies.)