Daily Current Affairs : 29-December-2023

In a significant stride towards inclusive education, the SHRESHTA scheme, short for the ‘Scheme for Residential Education for Students in High Schools in Targeted Areas,’ has been making commendable efforts to empower Scheduled Castes (SCs) students. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, this initiative aims to provide a unique opportunity for more than 2500 meritorious SC students to receive education in some of the best private residential schools across the nation.

Objective of SHRESHTA Scheme

The primary objective of the SHRESHTA scheme is to bridge educational gaps and foster the academic growth of SC students. By offering seats in top-tier private residential schools, the scheme strives to create a level playing field, ensuring that deserving students from SC backgrounds receive quality education.

Modes of Schooling under SHRESHTA

1. Schooling under CBSE/State Board Affiliated Private Residential Schools:

  • In this mode, 3000 meritorious SC students gain admission to selected private schools affiliated with CBSE and State Boards.
  • The National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA (NETS), conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), acts as the gateway for student selection.
  • Eligibility is based on merit, with students from families having an annual income of up to 2.5 lakh being selected.

2. Admission to NGO-operated Schools:

  • Another avenue under SHRESHTA involves admission to schools and hostels operated by voluntary organizations (VOs) and NGOs.
  • These institutions, offering education up to class 12, play a crucial role in widening access to quality education for SC students.
Important Points:
  • SHRESHTA Scheme Overview:
    • Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment initiative
    • Aims to empower Scheduled Castes (SCs) students
    • Facilitates over 2500 SC students in top private residential schools
  • Objective of SHRESHTA Scheme:
    • Bridge educational gaps for SC students
    • Foster academic growth
    • Provide equal opportunities for quality education
  • Modes of Schooling under SHRESHTA:
    • CBSE/State Board Affiliated Private Residential Schools:
      • Admission for 3000 meritorious SC students
      • Selected through National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA (NETS) by NTA
      • Merit-based selection for students with parents’ annual income up to 2.5 lakh
    • Admission to NGO-operated Schools:
      • Schools and hostels run by voluntary organizations (VOs) and NGOs
      • Offers education up to class 12
      • Widens access to quality education for SC students
Why In News

Under the SHRESHTA scheme, aimed at promoting inclusivity and education, more than 2500 Scheduled Castes (SCs) students in private schools have been facilitated, fostering a nurturing environment for their academic growth and development.

MCQs about SHRESHTA Scheme

  1. What does the SHRESHTA scheme primarily aim to achieve?
    A. Promote cultural diversity
    B. Empower Scheduled Castes (SCs) students
    C. Enhance sports education
    D. Improve rural infrastructure
    Correct Answer: B. Empower Scheduled Castes (SCs) students
    Explanation: The SHRESHTA scheme is specifically designed to empower Scheduled Castes (SCs) students by providing them with opportunities for quality education.
  2. How are students selected for admission to CBSE/State Board Affiliated Private Residential Schools under the SHRESHTA scheme?
    A. Lottery system
    B. Parental recommendations
    C. National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA (NETS)
    D. First-come, first-served basis
    Correct Answer: C. National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA (NETS)
    Explanation: Students are selected through the National Entrance Test for SHRESHTA (NETS) conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
  3. What is the income criterion for eligibility under the CBSE/State Board Affiliated Private Residential Schools mode of the SHRESHTA scheme?
    A. Up to 1.5 lakh annually
    B. Up to 2.5 lakh annually
    C. Up to 3.5 lakh annually
    D. No income criteria
    Correct Answer: B. Up to 2.5 lakh annually
    Explanation: Students with parents’ annual income up to 2.5 lakh are eligible for admission under the CBSE/State Board Affiliated Private Residential Schools mode.
  4. What role do NGO-operated schools play under the SHRESHTA scheme?
    A. Provide vocational training
    B. Focus on cultural development
    C. Offer education up to class 10
    D. Offer education up to class 12 and widen access to quality education for SC students
    Correct Answer: D. Offer education up to class 12 and widen access to quality education for SC students
    Explanation: NGO-operated schools under the SHRESHTA scheme offer education up to class 12 and play a crucial role in widening access to quality education for Scheduled Castes (SCs) students.

Boost up your confidence by appearing our Weekly Current Affairs Multiple Choice Questions

Loading