Key Facts
In a major policy shift, the Himachal Pradesh government has decided to directly transfer Rs 16,000 each to the bank accounts of 8,500 meritorious students instead of providing e-vouchers for electronic devices. The decision was taken in a meeting chaired by Education Secretary Rakesh Kanwar at the secretariat in Shimla on Friday.
Details of the Decision
The state government had earlier announced providing digital devices to about 9,500 meritorious students from classes 10, 12 and college level. Under the original plan, students were to receive e-vouchers worth Rs 16,000 to purchase laptops or tablets from empanelled companies. However, due to a continuous rise in device prices—exacerbated by the West Asia war disrupting global supply chains—companies expressed inability to supply at the old rates. As a result, the process stalled.
In March 2026, the government had issued e-vouchers, and students had booked devices. About 500 students managed to purchase devices using the coupons, but later the redeem cards became inactive, preventing further use. To resolve the crisis, the education department adopted the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) model. Under this, the government will collect Aadhaar-linked bank account details of all beneficiaries and transfer the amount via RTGS.
Impact on Students
The change benefits students from the 2023, 2024 and 2025 batches who were waiting for devices. Education Minister Rohit Thakur stated that after considering all options, DBT was the most feasible way to ensure students receive the financial support without further delay. The scheme was originally launched in December 2025 in Mandi to commemorate three years of the Congress government.
What Students Should Know
- Eligible students must ensure their bank accounts are linked with Aadhaar.
- The amount will be transferred via RTGS directly to the beneficiary's account.
- Students who already purchased devices using coupons will not receive additional money.
- The government aims to complete the transfer process at the earliest.
FAQ
How many students will benefit from the DBT scheme?
Around 8,500 meritorious students from classes 10, 12 and college level will receive Rs 16,000 each directly in their bank accounts.
Why did the government switch from e-vouchers to DBT?
Due to rising prices of electronic devices caused by the West Asia war, companies refused to supply at old rates, forcing the government to adopt direct benefit transfer.
When was the scheme originally launched?
The scheme was launched in December 2025 in Mandi to mark three years of the Congress government.
Who announced the decision?
Education Secretary Rakesh Kanwar chaired the meeting, and Education Minister Rohit Thakur confirmed the DBT mode.