In a major push for social equity, CM Bhagwant Mann distributed ₹271 crore in scholarships to over 2.7 lakh SC students under ‘Mission Rangla Punjab.’
The initiative features a 35% increase in beneficiaries since 2021 and introduces mandatory bio-authentication to eliminate the corruption of previous regimes.
At a massive gathering at the PAP Ground in Jalandhar, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann launched the distribution of post-matric scholarships worth ₹271 crore to more than 2.7 lakh Scheduled Caste (SC) students. Framing the initiative as a “powerful instrument of social transformation,” the Chief Minister noted that the number of beneficiaries has surged by 35 percent compared to the 2020–21 academic year. CM Mann asserted that unlike previous administrations, which were marred by scholarship scams and fund diversions, the AAP government has utilized transparent bio-authentication to ensure that every rupee reaches the rightful students, fulfilling the educational dreams of Punjab’s underprivileged youth.
Historically, the Post-Matric Scholarship scheme in Punjab was plagued by systemic neglect and high-profile scams between 2017 and 2020. These delays often resulted in educational institutions withholding degrees from students belonging to weaker sections.
Under the “Mission Rangla Punjab” drive, the state has not only increased the budget from ₹245 crore to ₹271 crore but also revamped the Dr. Ambedkar Scholarship Portal with a new accountability system. This educational reform is part of a broader governance strategy that includes the establishment of 118 Schools of Eminence and a historic expansion of healthcare, where 65 lakh families now receive cashless treatment up to ₹10 lakh regardless of income.
Bhagwant Singh Mann (Chief Minister, Punjab): “Education is the only key to changing the destiny of the underprivileged. We have moved from scams to ‘Punjab Shine.’ This scholarship is not mere financial aid; it is a tool for self-reliance rooted in Babasaheb Ambedkar’s philosophy.”
Dr. Dilpreet Singh (Beneficiary & MBBS Student): “I want to thank the Chief Minister for turning ‘Dilpreet Singh’ into ‘Dr. Dilpreet. ‘Words fall short to express how this scheme has supported my medical education despite my family’s financial struggles.”
Harshita (BA LLB Student): “This scheme proved that the government delivers on its promises. It has given wings to my aspirations of becoming a lawyer, which seemed impossible without this support.”
Education Experts: Analysts at the event highlighted that Punjab surpassing Kerala in the National Achievement Survey is a testament to the success of integrating smart classrooms and specialized coaching for exams like NEET and JEE in government schools.
The scholarship distribution marks a significant milestone in Punjab’s 2026 development roadmap:
Transparency: First-of-its-kind mandatory bio-authentication for students and nodal officers to prevent the “ghost beneficiary” scams of the past.
Inclusivity: Eligibility remains focused on families with an annual income below ₹2.50 lakh, ensuring the most vulnerable are prioritized.
Holistic Support: Students are now receiving specialized coaching for NEET, JEE, CLAT, and NIFT, leading to record qualification numbers from government schools.
Employment: The government highlighted that 63,027 jobs have been provided in the last four years purely on merit, ensuring that educated SC youth have immediate career paths.
The Punjab government plans to further its heritage and social justice agenda by celebrating the 650th Parkash Purab of Guru Ravidass Ji on a grand scale later this year. Simultaneously, the state continues to expand its Aam Aadmi Clinics (currently at 881, heading toward 1,000) and infrastructure projects like the Malwa Canal to ensure that development reaches the “tail ends” of the state.
