Assam Distributes Scooters to 11,250 Class 12 Toppers Scoring 80% and Above Under Merit Award Scheme

Dispur : Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Monday distributed scooters to 11,250 Higher Secondary students who scored 80% and above in the Class 12 board examinations. The distribution was held under the Dr. Banikanta Kakati Merit Award, a flagship initiative aimed at recognising academic excellence among school students.

This year’s number of beneficiaries dropped from 48,673 to 11,250, following what the Chief Minister described as “minor adjustments” to the eligibility criteria. Despite the reduction, Sarma emphasised that the state remains deeply committed to promoting education for both girls and boys.

Support for Girls Through Nijut Moina Scheme

Sarma highlighted that over five lakh girls are currently supported through the Nijut Moina scheme, which offers financial assistance to encourage continued education. He also announced that a similar incentive programme for boys will be launched on January 1, expanding the state’s reach in motivating academic achievement.

Of the scooter recipients this year, 6,860 are girls, with the remaining being boys. The Chief Minister noted that since 2017–18, Assam has distributed 1,86,442 scooters, investing more than ₹1,043 crore under the merit award initiative.

Students Advised on Road Safety & Positive Mindset

Addressing the students, Sarma urged them to follow essential road safety norms, including wearing helmets and possessing valid driving licences. He encouraged them to maintain a positive outlook, warning that negative thinking can lead to self-doubt and harmful influences, while positivity builds confidence and clarity.

Assam’s Expanding Education & Health Infrastructure

Sarma used the occasion to highlight Assam’s rapid advancement in higher education and health infrastructure. The state now boasts more than:

• 25 medical colleges (15 operational, 10 under construction)

• 2 central universities

• 25–26 state universities (existing and upcoming)

• Around 30 engineering colleges, including IIT Guwahati and NIT Silchar

He emphasised that Assam’s academic landscape has been transformed, reducing the need for students to seek quality higher education outside the state.

The Chief Minister reiterated the government’s vision of increasing medical seats from the current 2,000 to 5,000 by 2030, strengthening Assam’s position as an educational hub in the region.

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