Assam CM Launches Nijut Moina 2.0 for Girls’ Education

Assam CM Launches Nijut Moina 2.0 for Girls’ Education

Guwahati, Assam — Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma recently launched the second phase of the Mukhya Mantrir Nijut Moina scheme, popularly known as Nijut Moina 2.0. This ambitious initiative aims to significantly increase the enrolment of girls in higher education by providing them with monthly financial assistance. The launch event took place at the Birinchi Kumar Barua Auditorium, Gauhati University, accompanied by simultaneous programs across all districts for distributing application forms and raising awareness.

What is Nijut Moina 2.0?

Building on the success of the original Nijut Moina scheme, the 2.0 version expands the scope to cover girls studying at Higher Secondary (HS), undergraduate, and postgraduate levels. The scheme’s primary goal is to reduce dropout rates among girls and prevent child marriages by providing them financial security throughout their academic journey.

Financial Aid Details

The scheme offers monthly financial assistance based on the education level of the student:

• Higher Secondary (HS) First Year: ₹1,000 per month (₹10,000 annually)
• Undergraduate Students: ₹1,250 per month (₹12,500 annually)
• Postgraduate Students: ₹2,500 per month (₹25,000 annually)

This assistance is provided for 10 months each academic year and covers girls enrolled in government and government-aided institutions. This year, over 400,000 girls are expected to benefit from this scheme.

Eligibility Criteria and Exclusions

The scheme is inclusive, welcoming girls from all economic backgrounds. However, certain exclusions have been made to ensure the focus remains on the most vulnerable:

• Married girls, except select postgraduate and B.Ed students, are generally not eligible.
• Daughters of ministers, Members of Parliament (MPs), and Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs).
• Recipients of scooter awards under other government programs unless they choose to opt out.

These conditions aim to target financial assistance where it is most needed and avoid duplication of benefits.

Linking Education with Social Reform

A major objective of Nijut Moina 2.0 is to address the widespread issue of child marriage in Assam. The state government has pledged to eliminate child marriage by 2026, and by alleviating financial burdens, the scheme encourages girls to continue their education and delay marriage. The initiative complements Assam’s universal free admission policy for students irrespective of caste, religion, or economic status.

Statewide Awareness and Support

District-level launch events saw enthusiastic participation from educational institutions, community leaders, women’s organizations, and local government officials. This collective support underscores the scheme’s importance as a community-driven effort toward gender equality and educational empowerment.

Why This Scheme Matters for Exams

The Nijut Moina 2.0 scheme is an important topic for competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, and state-level exams because:

• It highlights government efforts toward women’s empowerment and education.
• Connects social issues like child marriage prevention with education policy.
• Reflects Assam’s unique regional initiatives, relevant to General Studies and Current Affairs sections.
• Demonstrates inclusive social welfare models targeting marginalized groups.

Candidates should remember the scheme’s objectives, financial structure, eligibility criteria, and its wider social impact for mains answer writing and interviews.