The National Scheme for Incentive to Girls for Secondary Education (NSIGSE) was introduced to promote the education of girls, particularly those belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST). The government aims to reduce dropout rates and encourage girls to complete their secondary education by offering financial incentives.
Key Features of NSIGSE
- Financial Incentive: A one-time grant of ₹3,000 is provided to eligible girls who successfully pass their 8th-grade examination and enroll in secondary education. The money is deposited into a fixed account in the girl’s name and can be withdrawn once she turns 18, provided she has completed her secondary education.
- Targeted Groups: This scheme specifically benefits:
- SC/ST girls who pass Class 8 and enroll in Class 9.
- Girls who remain unmarried up to the age of 18.
- Nationwide Scope: The scheme is implemented across all government, government-aided, and local body schools, ensuring a wide reach.
Impact of NSIGSE
The dropout rate among girls, especially in rural and economically backward areas, tends to increase after primary school. The NSIGSE initiative aims to reverse this trend by:
- Offering a financial incentive to families who may otherwise pull their daughters out of school due to financial constraints.
- Encouraging families to delay early marriages, ensuring that girls complete at least their secondary education.
By focusing on SC/ST girls, the scheme addresses the educational needs of one of the most vulnerable groups in society. It is a crucial step towards improving literacy rates and empowering girls with better educational opportunities.