SHIMLA 020 August, 2026-A delegation of the Vahani Scholarship Trust called on Education Minister Rohit Thakur today and apprised him of the Trust’s scholarship initiatives for meritorious students from economically weaker sections.

The Minister was apprised that the Trust currently supports 80 students annually, with the number proposed to increase by 10 students every year. So far, 348 students have benefited from the programme.

The scholarship supports students from families with an annual income below Rs. 3 lakh. Eligible students must have secured at least 85 per cent marks in Class 10 Board examinations and be currently studying in Class 12. The Trust provides full financial support for tuition and academic fees, along with assistance for laptops, Wi-Fi, books, hostel accommodation and one annual round trip home. The support enables deserving students to pursue higher and professional education, including courses such as MBBS, LLB, engineering, management and other career-oriented programmes. Mentorship, career counselling and skill-development opportunities are also provided under the scheme.

Appreciating the initiative, Rohit Thakur said that initiative can significantly benefit meritorious students from economically weaker families in Himachal Pradesh, particularly those from rural, remote and hill areas, by helping them access higher education without financial constraints. He said that such programmes can provide valuable opportunities to deserving students and help them pursue higher education and build successful careers.

The Minister directed officers of Education Department to widely publicise the scholarship through schools and educational institutions across the state so that eligible students are aware of the scheme and its application process. He stressed that lack of information should not deprive any deserving student from taking the benefit of the scheme.

Managing Director Vahani Scholarship Trust Rashmani, Operation Manager Khushnuma Parween and Senior officers of Education Department were present on the occasion.