Sandeep Oraon, a 26-year-old from Jharkhand’s Tamar block, dreams of cracking the Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC) exams. Financial constraints have been a major hurdle, but the Jharkhand government’s free coaching initiative has opened new doors for students like him. Launched by Chief Minister Hemant Soren, the programme, initially for Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) candidates, now supports all tribal students. With access to world-class teachers and increased funding, the initiative aims to bridge the gap in opportunities and empower tribal students to enter state bureaucracy.
In 2023, the programme saw 156 candidates from eight PVTG tribes shortlisted for free coaching for the Jharkhand Staff Selection Commission (JSSC) exams. The government has committed to expanding the programme further, with an increased budget of ₹1 crore in 2024.
Pratima Kumari and Suryakant, both JPSC aspirants, expressed how this initiative provides much-needed financial relief and hope, allowing them to pursue their ambitions in state service.
This comprehensive scheme not only aims to lift financial burdens but also addresses the deeper issue of tribal representation in state governance, empowering future generations to take charge of policy-making.
