Nilanjan
Education is the key to empowerment and development, especially for girls who face many social and economic barriers in accessing quality education. To address this issue, the government of Tamil Nadu has launched a scheme called ‘Puthumai Penn’ (Innovative Girl) in September 2022. The scheme provides financial assistance of Rs 1,000 per month to girl students from government schools who enroll in higher education institutions such as colleges, universities, ITIs, etc. The scheme aims to enhance the enrolment ratio of girls from government schools to higher education institutions and encourage them to pursue their dreams and aspirations.
The scheme is implemented by the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department of Tamil Nadu in association with the Quality Council of India (QCI). The scheme covers all girl students who have passed Class 12 from government schools and have joined any recognized higher education course. The scheme is valid till the completion of the course or for a maximum period of five years, whichever is earlier. The incentive amount under the scheme is disbursed directly into the student’s bank account through Aadhaar-linked payment system.
The scheme has received a positive response from the girl students and their parents, as it has helped them overcome the financial constraints and social pressures that often prevent them from continuing their education after school. According to the Social Welfare Minister P. Geetha Jeevan, over 4 lakh girl students have been enrolled in the ‘Puthumai Penn’ scheme so far. She also said that after witnessing the benefits of the scheme, 2.50 lakh more students are expected to join the scheme during this financial year.
Speaking at a career guidance event organised in Thoothukudi on Monday, Ms. Geetha Jeevan said, “Hence, the girl students should make use of this scheme to come up in life by attaining more educational qualifications.” She also handed over appointment orders to the heirs of nine nutritious meal scheme workers who died in harness. Collector K. Senthil Raj, Deputy Collector (Training) Prabhu and District Social Welfare Officer Rathi Devi were present at the event.
How to apply for Puthumai Penn scheme?
To apply for Puthumai Penn scheme, you need to follow these steps:
- Visit the official website of Puthumai Penn scheme https://www.pudhumaipenn.tn.gov.in/ or visit your nearest Common Service Centre (CSC) or local revenue office or panchayat office.
- Fill up the online or offline application form with your personal details, bank account details, Aadhaar number, course details, etc.
- Upload or attach your required documents such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, Class 12 mark sheet, admission letter, etc.
- Submit your application and take a printout of it for future reference.
What are the eligibility criteria for Puthumai Penn scheme?
To be eligible for Puthumai Penn scheme, you need to meet the following criteria:
- You must be a girl student who has passed Class 12 from a government school in Tamil Nadu.
- You must have joined any recognized higher education course such as degree, diploma, ITI, etc.
- You must have a valid Aadhaar card and a bank account linked with it.
- You must not be availing any other scholarship or financial assistance from any other source.
What are the benefits of Puthumai Penn scheme?
Puthumai Penn scheme has many benefits for girl students, such as:
- Financial assistance: The scheme provides financial assistance of Rs 1,000 per month to the girl students till they complete their higher education course or for a maximum period of five years, whichever is earlier. This helps them to pay their fees, buy books and other materials, and meet their other expenses related to education.
- Educational empowerment: The scheme empowers the girl students to pursue their higher education without any financial or social hurdles. It also motivates them to excel in their academics and achieve their career goals.
- Social transformation: The scheme transforms the social perception and attitude towards girl education and empowerment. It also creates awareness among the parents and communities about the importance and benefits of educating girls.
- Economic development: The scheme contributes to the economic development of the state and the country by creating a pool of skilled and qualified women workforce who can participate in various sectors and fields.
Conclusion
Puthumai Penn scheme is a commendable initiative by the government of Tamil Nadu to promote girl education and empowerment in the state. The scheme provides financial assistance and encouragement to the girl students from government schools who want to pursue higher education. The scheme has already benefited over 4 lakh girl students and is expected to benefit 2.50 lakh more students this year.
If you are a girl student who has passed Class 12 from a government school and want to join any higher education course, you should apply for Puthumai Penn scheme and avail its benefits. You can also compare the courses and institutions that suit your interest and aptitude before making a decision.We hope you found this blog useful and informative. If you have any feedback or suggestions for us, please let us know. We would love to hear from you.
