In the presentation of the Uttar Pradesh state budget for 2024-25, Finance Minister Suresh Kumar Khanna outlined significant allocations for the education sector. A proposal of Rs 1,000 crore was set aside for furnishing free sweaters, shoes, and bags to nearly 2 crore school children in classes 1 to 8. Another Rs 1,000 crore was designated for the refurbishment of government primary schools. For the provision of free sweaters, shoes, socks, and school bags, Rs 650 crore, and Rs 350 crore were allocated, respectively, benefiting over 2 crore students in government schools.
Furthermore, a budget provision of Rs 1,000 crore was proposed for Operation Kayakalp, focusing on the enhancement of primary schools. Minister Khanna emphasized the direct transfer of Rs 1,200 per student to parents’ bank accounts through DBT, replacing the traditional procurement process for uniforms, sweaters, school bags, shoes, and stationery.
The budget outlined various other allocations, including Rs 255 crore for enrolling over 2 lakh children from disadvantaged groups and economically weaker sections. Additionally, Rs 168 crore was designated for providing free uniforms to approximately 30 lakh students above the poverty line.
Strategic initiatives for education encompassed Rs 516.64 crore under the Samagra Shiksha Yojana for equipping all government secondary schools with basic facilities and establishing smart classes and labs. To encourage vocational education, a provision of Rs 818.75 crore was proposed for upgrading government Industrial Training Institutes, collaborating with Tata Technologies Limited.
The financial year 2024-2025 also includes Rs 70 crore for the Chief Minister Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme, aiming to provide training and allowances to youth in industries through apprenticeships. Overall, the budget reflected a comprehensive approach to improving education infrastructure, accessibility, and quality across various levels.
Source: PTI
Also read: Karnataka budget 2023-24. Major allocations towards infrastructure upgrades for school education