Uttar Pradesh launches free scooty scheme for college girls

In a landmark decision aimed at empowering young women, the Uttar Pradesh cabinet has approved the implementation guidelines for the Rani Lakshmibai Scooty Yojana. Under this initiative, meritorious undergraduate girl students will receive free scooters to facilitate their access to higher education. The decision, announced on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, is expected to significantly reduce dropout rates and improve mobility for female students across the state.

Merit-Based Selection for Top Graduates
The scheme targets the top 5% of female graduates, selected based on academic merit. Eligible beneficiaries must be domiciles of Uttar Pradesh and graduates from State Universities, Private Universities, or colleges affiliated with State Universities, including government-aided and self-financed institutions. The initiative is set to roll out during the 2025-26 academic session.

Boosting Access to Education
The State government emphasized that the scheme aims to address challenges faced by women in accessing higher education, particularly in rural and remote areas. By improving transportation options, the initiative seeks to increase the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) and foster a sense of independence and confidence among young women. Higher Education Minister Yogendra Upadhyay stated that the program is designed to ensure mobility and retention in higher education for female students.

Comprehensive Scooter Package
The scooters provided under the scheme will be petrol-powered, a choice made to ensure better availability of fuel and servicing in rural regions. To guarantee transparency and quality, the vehicles will be procured through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal. The package includes registration charges, comprehensive insurance, an ISI-marked helmet, 4 litres of petrol, and other necessary accessories, ensuring no additional financial burden on the beneficiaries.

Why This Matters
The Rani Lakshmibai Scooty Yojana reflects the Uttar Pradesh government’s commitment to empowering women through education. By addressing logistical barriers and fostering self-reliance, the scheme is expected to make higher education more accessible for girls, particularly in underserved areas. This move aligns with broader efforts to improve gender parity in education and enhance opportunities for women across the state.

Source: The Hindu