Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: In a significant move to promote inclusive education, the Goa government has launched the ‘Bhagwan Birsa Munda Lakshya Siddhi Yojana’, a dedicated scheme aimed at supporting Scheduled Tribe (ST) students in their preparation for NEET and JEE entrance examinations. Announced by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant in the State Budget 2025–26, the initiative seeks to bridge the educational gap by offering financial assistance for coaching through full or partial reimbursement of fees.
As per the scheme guidelines, students from ST families with an annual income of up to ₹8 lakh will be eligible for 100% reimbursement of their coaching fees. Those with a family income above ₹8 lakh will receive 75% reimbursement, subject to a maximum cap of ₹3 lakh per course, either NEET or JEE. A total of 300 students will benefit from the scheme, with an equal division of 150 seats each for NEET and JEE aspirants. The selection will be strictly based on merit, and unfilled seats in one category may be transferred to the other, ensuring the total number of beneficiaries remains unchanged.
To be eligible, students must have secured a minimum of 65% marks in their SSC (Class 10) examinations and must be regular, full-time students enrolled in higher secondary schools recognized by the Goa Board or any Central education board. The coaching must be undertaken at institutions registered under the Societies Registration Act, Companies Act, or any applicable State legislation. The scheme covers both online and offline coaching formats, and students must declare that they are not receiving similar coaching assistance under any other State or Central scheme.
The Bhagwan Birsa Munda Lakshya Siddhi Yojana is a progressive step by the state government to create equal academic opportunities for tribal youth and strengthen their prospects in highly competitive national-level entrance examinations.
