Parliamentary Panel Slams Cut in Scholarship Target for Marginalised Students

A parliamentary committee has expressed strong disapproval over the government's decision to reduce the target for scholarship beneficiaries to 34 lakh for the financial year 2026-27. The panel, reviewing the disbursal of scholarships to students from marginalised communities, termed the approach "unacceptable."

The committee's criticism stems from the principle that annual targets should reflect progressive expansion of coverage, not contraction. It argued that lowering the goal after previous years' targets were missed sets a problematic precedent. Instead, the panel asserted, targets should be increased every year to ensure wider access to educational support for disadvantaged groups.

The reduction in the beneficiary target comes amid ongoing concerns about delays in the disbursal of scholarships. The committee's remarks highlight a broader administrative challenge in ensuring timely and adequate financial assistance reaches students who depend on these funds for their education. The panel's stance underscores the need for consistent policy direction and improved execution in social welfare schemes.