The Chief Minister of Assam, Himanta Biswa Sarma, has declared that his administration would offer a monthly allowance to all female students from 11th grade to postgraduate level for the next five years. The goal of this initiative is to combat child marriages.

Nijut Moina Scheme to Combat Child Marriage

During a press briefing, Sarma revealed that the ‘Nijut Moina’ scheme had received cabinet approval. The government anticipates that approximately Rs 1,500 crore will be needed over five years to provide these incentives to nearly 10 lakh girls.

"Assam government has announced today a unique scheme to fight against early marriage of girl students, and also to inspire them to continue their education upto the post-graduate level," Sarma stated.

Child Marriage<br />
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"Under this scheme, all girls studying in classes 11 and 12 will get Rs 1,000 every month, it will be Rs 1,250 per month for degree students and Rs 2,500 for girls doing post-graduation. Through this scheme, we want to prevent child marriages in Assam and take responsibility of girl education... This amount will be transferred to the girls' accounts on the 11th of every month,” he explained.

Sarma clarified that married girls would not be eligible for this benefit, with the only exception being married girls enrolled in postgraduate courses.

The primary objective of this scheme is to postpone a girl’s marriage until she can achieve financial independence and contribute to her family’s income. Sarma believes that this scheme will significantly increase the gross enrollment ratio of girls.

"Except for daughters of ministers, MLAs and MPs, and those students studying in private colleges, all girls irrespective of their financial background, will be included in the scheme. In June and July, during summer vacation, no money will be given. The stipend will be deposited to the bank accounts of the students for 10 months a year,” he further stated.

In addition to the stipend, Sarma mentioned that world-class coaching facilities will be made available to students from economically disadvantaged and middle-class families.

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