In a major push for girls’ education, the Gujarat government has distributed ₹924 crore in financial aid to 10.83 lakh female students under the ‘Namo Lakshmi Yojana’ over the past year, leading to a 16% surge in enrollment, according to the State government. 

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, while reviewing the scheme’s progress, said, “Empowering daughters through education is empowering our future. The success of Namo Lakshmi Yojana proves our commitment to ensuring no girl is left behind due to financial constraints.”

Launched in 2024, the scheme provides ₹50,000 over four years to girls from families earning less than ₹6 lakh annually, helping them complete Classes 9 to 12. “When we educate a girl, we uplift an entire generation,” Mr. Patel added, stating that the initiative’s role in curbing dropout rates and fostering women’s empowerment.  

Mukesh Kumar, Principal Secretary of the Education Department, reported, “The 16% enrollment jump in just one year reflects the scheme’s transformative impact. We’re not just funding education—we’re building aspirations.” 

Beneficiaries like Akshara Diwan, a Class 11 student from Mehsana, echoed this sentiment: “The aid helps me buy books and supplies as I train to become a police officer.” Parents too hailed the initiative, with potter Shailesh Prajapati calling it “a ray of hope for families like ours.”  

“This is just the beginning,” affirmed Mr. Patel, “We’re working to make Gujarat a model state for girls’ education.”