Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Government of Goa has announced the opening of online applications for its Free Laptop Scheme aimed at promoting digital education among meritorious students from the Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities. The initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (DITE&C) under the leadership of Hon’ble Minister Shri Rohan A. Khaunte, is being implemented through the Info Tech Corporation of Goa Ltd. (ITG). It seeks to provide laptops to deserving Class X students from the academic year 2024–2025, encouraging academic excellence and bridging the digital divide.
As part of the scheme, 10 students from each Taluka—5 boys and 5 girls from SC and ST communities—will be selected based on their academic performance. To qualify, applicants must belong to the SC or ST community, be born in Goa or have at least one parent born in the state, and have passed the Class X exam (Goa Board) in their first attempt with a minimum of 70% aggregate marks. Additionally, the student must be studying in the same Taluka where they are being considered for merit and rank among the top 5 male or female SC/ST students in that Taluka.
Applicants are required to submit a set of documents including the birth certificate (of the student or a parent), Class X mark sheet from the Goa Board, caste certificate (attested copy), parent’s consent form (Annexure I), student’s photo ID (Aadhaar card or school ID), and a parent’s ID with signature (such as PAN card, passport, or driving licence).
The scheme reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure equitable access to technology-driven learning tools for students from all backgrounds. Eligible students can apply through the official website infotech.goa.gov.in. The deadline for submission of applications is July 31, 2025.
