Jagan releases first installment of Jagananna Vidya Deevena worth Rs. 671.45 cr

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said the scheme has been designed to make education accessible to the poor and the needy in the state. The real wealth which can be given to the future generation is education, which alone can eradicate poverty and change their lives, Jagan added.

As promised during the 3,648-km padayatra, the government had released Rs. 4,207.85 crore for fee reimbursement for 2019-20, besides clearing Rs. 1,880 crore pending dues of the previous government during 2018-19, Jagan said and pointed out that none of the previous governments have reimbursed the fee arrears on such a large scale.

Further, the Chief Minister said the state government has been committed to the education sector and rolled out schemes like Jagananna Goru Mudha, Amma Vodi, and Vasati Deevena to ensure that no family runs into debt for the sake of education. So far, Rs. 4,879 crore has been spent under Jagananna Vidya Deevena that has benefitted 10.88 lakh students, he said.

Earlier, under the scheme, the money was paid directly to colleges but now it's credited to the student's mother's account so that they can better supervise the college facilities and students' wellbeing. In case of any problem with college management or with Vidya Deevena, beneficiaries can call 1902 toll-free number.

Under Jagananna Vidya Deevena, the money will be credited in four installments. The government released the first tranche on Monday and the second will be released in July, third in December, and the fourth installment in February next year. Last year, around 10.11 lakh students benefited under the scheme and this year the number increased by 77,000, benefiting 10.88 lakh students, said the Chief Minister.

Deputy chief minister Dharmana Krishnadas, education minister Adimulapu Suresh, BC welfare minister Chelluboina Venugopalakrishna, principal secretary higher education K. Satish Chandra, and other officials were present on the occasion.