Raipur: The Chhattisgarh government announced that it will fund the education of children orphaned by the pandemic in the Mahatri Dular Scheme.

The Bhupesh Baghel government on 1st of June had announced free education and scholarship of Rs 500 per month to students from Class 1 to 8 and Rs 1,000 per month from Class 9 to 12 additionally. Following which the School Education Department had directed all Collectors to implement the scheme in coordination with the School Education, Health and Social Welfare departments.   Under the scheme the government had prioritized students only belonging to the government schools and state-run Atamand English Medium schools. 

However, in a recent announcement CM Baghel announced the inclusion of orphaned students studying in  private schools as well. Furthermore, the state has also decided to aid children who have lost their sole financial bearer. 

As per the official notice, the Collector is instructed to submit all details of the destitute children to the District Education Officer. However, the government has also permitted the guardian to approach the Education officer.  A Committee under the Chairmanship of District Education Officer will be constituted to examine the applications received in which one officer each from Health Department and Social Welfare Department will study the applications. The recommendation of the Committee will  then be forwarded to  the District Collector for approval.