KOHIMA, NOVEMBER 30 (MExN): The All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU) and Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU) has appealed to the Minister for Higher Education & Tourism for immediate intervention regarding the pending release of the 2nd installment of the Post Matric Scholarship (ST) for the year 2023-2024.
In a letter addressed to the Minister, the ANCSU acknowledged the efforts of the Higher Education Department, which serves as the Scheme Implementing Agency for the Post Matric Scholarship for Scheduled Tribes (PMS ST), for advocating with the concerned central ministry to facilitate the disbursement of funds. However, the union expressed deep concern over the repeated delays in the release of the full amount, which has created significant hardship for students who depend on the scholarship to meet their academic expenses.
The ANCSU highlighted that the Ministry of Tribal Affairs had released only 75% of the central share to the state, leaving a pending balance of Rs 12.74 crore (Rupees twelve crore seventy-four lakh one thousand) yet to be sanctioned for PMS ST 2023-2024. This delay, according to the ANCSU, has caused distress and anxiety among students, particularly as the odd semester ends and new admissions for the even semester begin.
"The disbursement of an inadequate amount of the scholarship has disrupted the academic and financial planning of many students who rely entirely on these funds. We appeal for urgent attention to ensure the early release of the remaining 25% of the funds," stated the ANCSU in their letter.
The student body also urged the Minister to engage with the concerned central ministry to expedite the process, emphasizing that while the state government’s efforts towards organizing the Hornbill Festival are commendable, the educational needs of students must not be overlooked.
“We firmly believe that the timely resolution of this issue will ensure the continued academic progress of students and uphold the government’s commitment to their educational welfare," the ANCSU stated, expressing confidence that the Minister would take swift action to resolve the matter.
The Dimapur Naga Students’ Union (DNSU), meanwhile, sought clarification from the concerned department regarding the pending amount, while highlighting that students are confused about the release of the remaining funds.
It requested the concerned department’s immediate intervention to engage with the concerned Ministry for the early release and disbursement of the pending 2nd installment of PMS ST.
The DNSU believed that addressing this issue will not only alleviate the financial burdens of the student community but also uphold the commitment of the Government of Nagaland to the educational welfare of its students.
