Updated PM CARES Scheme

The Government of India has launched an updated coaching scheme aimed at providing high-quality coaching to students from underprivileged backgrounds. This initiative targets children covered under the PM CARES scheme as well as those from Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). Originally introduced during the Sixth Five-Year Plan, the scheme has evolved through various revisions to enhance its reach and effectiveness. The most recent update eliminates caste and income restrictions for PM CARES beneficiaries, broadening access to quality education.

Eligibility Criteria

Students eligible for the scheme must meet specific criteria. SC and OBC students should come from families with an annual income of Rs 8 lakh or less. They must also have achieved at least 50 per cent in their previous board examinations. For PM CARES beneficiaries, there are no income limits or selection processes; they are granted direct admission.

Coaching Coverage

The scheme provides coaching for a variety of competitive examinations. This includes Civil Services exams conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) and State Public Service Commissions. It also covers entrance examinations for prestigious institutions in engineering (IIT-JEE), medicine (NEET), management (CAT), and law (CLAT). Additionally, it supports international study aspirants with coaching for tests like GRE, GMAT, IELTS, TOEFL, and SAT. Defence-related exams such as the National Defence Academy (NDA) and Combined Defence Services (CDS) are also included.

Seat Allocation

A total of 3,500 students will be selected annually under this scheme. Of these, 70 per cent of the seats are reserved for SC students and 30 per cent for OBC students. Furthermore, within each category, 30 per cent of the seats are reserved for female candidates. If there are insufficient female applicants, remaining seats will be allocated to male candidates from the same category.

Financial Support

The government will cover the coaching fees, which can range from Rs 20,000 to Rs 75,000 based on the course. Additionally, students will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 4,000 for up to 12 months to assist with living expenses. Those who pass the mains stage of Civil Services and State Services exams will receive an extra Rs 15,000 to help with interview preparations.

Implementation and Monitoring

The Dr. Ambedkar Foundation (DAF) will oversee the implementation of the scheme in collaboration with Central Universities. Each participating university must enrol at least 50 students and can offer a maximum of four different courses. Biometric attendance records will be maintained, and monthly progress reports are required. An Online Learning Management System will be established for monitoring and knowledge sharing among universities.

Performance Evaluation

Coaching institutions must meet certain performance benchmarks, such as success rates in competitive exams. Institutions that fail to meet these standards may lose funding or be removed from the scheme. This ensures accountability and the continuous improvement of educational quality.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Discuss the impact of reservation policies on educational opportunities for Scheduled Castes and Other Backward Classes in India.
2. Critically examine the role of coaching institutes in shaping the careers of students preparing for competitive examinations.
3. Explain the significance of the PM CARES scheme in addressing educational disparities. What are its potential long-term effects?
4. With suitable examples, discuss the challenges faced by underprivileged students in accessing quality education in India.

Answer Hints:

1. Discuss the impact of reservation policies on educational opportunities for Scheduled Castes and Other Backward Classes in India.

1. Reservation policies aim to enhance access to education for SCs and OBCs, promoting social equity.
2. These policies have increased enrollment rates in higher education institutions among marginalized communities.
3. They help in reducing historical disadvantages faced by these groups, encouraging a more inclusive society.
4. Critics argue that reservations can lead to reverse discrimination and may not address root causes of inequality.
5. Overall, reservations have played important role in improving representation in education and employment sectors.

2. Critically examine the role of coaching institutes in shaping the careers of students preparing for competitive examinations.

1. Coaching institutes provide structured preparation and resources tailored for competitive exams, enhancing student performance.
2. They offer expert guidance and mentorship, which can improve students’ chances of success.
3. However, reliance on coaching can lead to a narrow focus on exam-specific strategies, neglecting broader education.
4. Coaching can be financially burdensome, potentially limiting access for underprivileged students.
5. Overall, while coaching institutes can boost success rates, they also raise concerns about educational equity and quality.

3. Explain the significance of the PM CARES scheme in addressing educational disparities. What are its potential long-term effects?

1. The PM CARES scheme provides direct access to quality coaching for underprivileged students, promoting educational equity.
2. It removes income and caste barriers for beneficiaries, broadening the reach of educational opportunities.
3. By supporting competitive exam preparation, it enhances employability and career prospects for marginalized groups.
4. Long-term effects may include improved socio-economic status for beneficiaries, contributing to national development.
5. The scheme can inspire similar initiatives, encouraging a culture of inclusivity in education across India.

4. With suitable examples, discuss the challenges faced by underprivileged students in accessing quality education in India.

1. Underprivileged students often lack access to reliable internet and technology, hindering online learning opportunities.
2. Financial constraints can limit their ability to afford coaching and study materials, impacting exam preparation.
3. Socio-cultural factors, such as family responsibilities or societal expectations, can divert focus from education.
4. Examples like rural students facing transportation issues highlight geographical barriers to quality education.
5. Overall, systemic issues, including inadequate infrastructure and social stigma, continue to hinder educational access.