Students belonging to Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities can now apply for financial assistance of up to Rs 2 lakh for their study tours and excursions through the Prashikshan Yatra Scheme. This amount has been increased from the previous limit of Rs 1.5 lakh. The financial aid will be sanctioned to the educational institutes where the students are enrolled, who will then organize and conduct the tours or excursions.
The scheme allows for Rs 5,000 per student to be granted as assistance. The total amount sanctioned will be determined based on the number of students and teachers involved, but it will not exceed Rs 2 lakh according to the government’s notification. The scheme is applicable to government high schools, higher secondary schools, government-aided schools, and recognized higher secondary schools that have ST students.
According to the notification, after the completion of the excursion, the accompanying guide teachers must submit a brief study and experience-sharing report within 15 days. These reports should be accompanied by bills for lodging and boarding, as well as bus or train tickets and travel fares.
It is important to note that the application for financial assistance should be submitted to the sanctioning authority at least two months in advance.
This increase in financial assistance will be applicable from the 2023-24 financial year, allowing students in the current academic year to benefit from the enhanced amount.
