Delhi’s government has launched the ‘KG to PG’ free education scheme, promising cost-free education in government institutions and ₹15,000 for competitive exam preparation. Announced as part of the BJP’s manifesto, the initiative aims to empower students, reduce financial burdens, and enhance access to quality education, marking a significant step toward inclusive learning in the capital.
Delhi’s Revolutionary ‘KG to PG’ Free Education Initiative
The Delhi government, under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, has rolled out an ambitious ‘KG to PG’ free education scheme, ensuring students in government institutions from kindergarten to postgraduate levels can study without financial barriers. Announced on January 24, 2025, as a key promise in the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) manifesto for Delhi, the initiative is designed to transform the educational landscape of the capital.
The scheme guarantees free education across all levels in government-run schools, colleges, and universities, covering tuition fees, books, and other essential academic resources. Additionally, it includes a ₹15,000 financial aid package for students preparing for competitive examinations, such as those for civil services, medical, or engineering entrances. This support aims to level the playing field for students from economically weaker sections, enabling them to compete in high-stakes exams without the burden of costly coaching fees.
Education Minister Ashish Sood emphasized the scheme’s alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which prioritizes equitable access to education. “This is a historic step to empower Delhi’s youth, ensuring no student is left behind due to financial constraints,” Sood stated during a recent press conference. The initiative also complements other recent educational reforms in Delhi, such as the introduction of advanced technologies like AI-powered smart boards and robotics labs in government schools.
The scheme has garnered significant attention, with many praising its potential to reduce dropout rates and increase enrollment in higher education. According to data from the Directorate of Education (DoE), Delhi’s government schools have already seen a 12% rise in enrollment since 2023, and officials expect this trend to accelerate with the new scheme. However, challenges remain, including the need for increased infrastructure and faculty to accommodate a potential surge in student numbers.
Critics have raised concerns about the scheme’s implementation, pointing to past issues with delayed scholarship disbursements in other states, such as Uttar Pradesh, where 3,500 Dalit students faced uncertainty due to funding delays. The Delhi government has assured stakeholders that robust mechanisms, including digital tracking systems, will ensure timely delivery of benefits. The DoE has also opened applications for transfers to 75 CM-Shri schools, which are being upgraded with smart classrooms and digital libraries, further enhancing the scheme’s impact.
The ₹15,000 competitive exam support has sparked particular excitement among students. Ankit Sharma, a Class 12 student from a government school in Rohini, shared, “This financial aid will help me afford study materials and mock tests for JEE, which were out of reach earlier.” The scheme’s focus on competitive exams aligns with Delhi’s growing reputation as a hub for aspirants targeting national-level entrance tests.
The initiative also dovetails with other educational advancements in Delhi, such as the relaunch of 75 government schools as CM-Shri schools with state-of-the-art facilities. These schools will feature 1,200 smart classrooms, 100 language labs, and 125 digital libraries by the end of 2025, ensuring students benefit from modern learning environments.
Public response on platforms like X reflects strong support, with users calling the scheme a “game-changer for Delhi’s youth.” However, some posts highlight the need for transparency in fund allocation to avoid mismanagement. The government has promised regular audits and a dedicated portal for students to track their benefits, addressing these concerns.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent news reports, government announcements, and posts on X. Information is sourced from credible outlets like Times of India, Hindustan Times, and The Hindu, but implementation details may evolve. Readers are advised to verify specifics through official government channels.