In a step aimed at promoting girls’ education and empowerment, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Wednesday reviewed the rollout plans for the second edition of the state’s flagship initiative, Nijut Moina 2.0.
The scheme, launched to provide financial assistance to girl students pursuing higher education, reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to close gender gaps in education.
CM Chairs High-Level Meeting in Guwahati
The high-level meeting was held in Guwahati, it involved top officials from the education department and district commissioners.
Chief Minister Sarma examined the preparedness for smooth implementation of Nijut Moina 2.0. Also, he stressed the importance of accurate beneficiary data and timely fund disbursal.
“The focus is to build a future where every girl can pursue higher studies without financial burden,” the CM said.
What Is Nijut Moina 2.0?
Nijut Moina, meaning One Lakh Girls, was first launched in 2023. The scheme provides direct cash benefit transfers to eligible girl students enrolled in higher secondary and college-level courses. However, the 2.0 version expands its scope. Also, it aims to reach more girls, including those in technical and professional streams.
The financial support helps cover academic fees, books, travel, and other educational needs. It also acts as a deterrent against early marriage and school dropouts among adolescent girls in rural areas.
Empowering Girls Through Education
According to the Assam Education Department, the first phase of Nijut Moina benefitted over 1.1 lakh girls.
Many used the funds to buy laptops, pay tuition, or prepare for competitive exams. “Nijut Moina 2.0 is not just a welfare scheme, it is an empowerment mission,” said Education Minister Ranoj Pegu.
He added that such support builds self-confidence and improves female representation in colleges across Assam.
Digital Monitoring and Transparency
To ensure transparency, the state will use a digital platform to monitor fund flow and student progress.
All girl students must apply through an online portal. Also, Aadhaar verification and direct bank transfers will be used to avoid duplication and delays.
The government also plans awareness drives to ensure that students from remote and tribal areas are not left out.
Socio-Economic Impact of the Scheme
Schemes like Nijut Moina 2.0 are vital in a state like Assam, where female literacy is still catching up.
With limited resources, many families struggle to send their daughters for higher education. Nevertheless, this scheme reduces financial stress and allows girls to dream big.
Early reports indicate lower dropout rates and higher enrollment in rural districts that benefitted from the first phase.
Strong Push Ahead of New Academic Year
The rollout of Nijut Moina 2.0 comes ahead of the 2025-26 academic session.
All district officials have been directed to ensure smooth ground-level execution. Moreover, awareness campaigns will be launched in schools, colleges, and villages in August.
A helpdesk will also be set up to support applicants and answer queries.
Assam Government’s Broader Education Reforms
The Assam government has made major investments in education in recent years. Additionally, from free bicycles to uniforms and new infrastructure. Also, multiple initiatives are working together to improve academic outcomes.
Nijut Moina 2.0 adds a focused gender lens to these reforms.
“Educating girls transforms entire communities,” CM Sarma said.
He reiterated his commitment to ensure every girl in Assam has access to education and equal opportunities.
Step Toward Equality and Opportunity
The Nijut Moina 2.0 scheme shows Assam’s bold commitment to girl child empowerment through education.
With stronger digital monitoring, wider reach. And, a clear focus on inclusion. Furthermore, the program is set to transform lives across the state.
As it rolls out in coming weeks, all eyes will be on how this effort improves gender equity. Further, boosts higher education enrollment among girls.
Read about Assam’s educational reforms and their impact on rural students.
For more on girl education policies in India, visit Ministry of Education – Schemes.