Government Expands Education Access for Girl Students

The government has said that more than seven lakh girl students are currently studying in Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs) across the country. This information was shared by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan while replying to supplementary questions in the Lok Sabha.

The Minister said that many of these students come from socially and economically weaker sections. Out of the total enrolment, more than two lakh girls belong to Scheduled Castes (SC), about 1.77 lakh are from Scheduled Tribes (ST), and around 2.64 lakh are from Other Backward Classes (OBC).

The Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya scheme was launched in July 2004. It aims to set up residential schools for girls, especially those from disadvantaged communities, at the primary and upper primary levels. These schools provide free education, along with accommodation, food, and other basic facilities.

Pradhan explained that the main objective of the scheme is to ensure that girls from poor and marginalised backgrounds get access to quality education. Many of these girls live in remote or rural areas where schools are not easily available. Residential schools help them continue their studies without facing travel or safety issues.

He added that the government is committed to improving girls’ education and reducing dropout rates. By expanding such schemes, the Centre hopes to empower young girls and provide them with better opportunities for the future.

The Minister said the growing enrolment numbers show that the programme is helping thousands of families and playing an important role in promoting education among girls across India.