The Bihar government is set to release long-awaited incentive payments for graduate girls. Around 1.5 lakh students will receive Rs 50,000 each within one month. These students have been waiting for the amount for nearly one and a half years.
The incentive amount will be credited directly to Aadhaar-linked bank accounts. The payment will begin as soon as funds are released. Officials said the process is now in its final stage.
The announcement has brought major relief to eligible students.
Finance Department Approves Rs 750 Crore for the Scheme
On the request of the Education Department, the Finance Department has approved Rs 750 crore. This amount has been sanctioned specifically for the graduate incentive scheme. Once released, payments will be transferred without delay.
Officials confirmed that fund approval was the final administrative hurdle. The Education Department had raised the demand four months ago. After approval, the disbursement process was fast-tracked.
The payment will follow direct benefit transfer norms.
Certificate Verification Nearly Completed
Universities were earlier directed to complete certificate verification quickly. Letters were sent to all concerned universities. Most institutions have already completed verification.
Only students with verified graduation certificates will receive the incentive. Authorities stressed that eligibility confirmation is mandatory. Any discrepancy may delay payment.
The verification process is now close to completion.
Over Five Lakh Applications Received Under the Scheme
A total of 5.78 lakh graduate girls applied online for the scheme. Applications came from various universities across Bihar. This made it one of the largest education-linked benefit programs.
Earlier, 1.98 lakh students received the incentive. Their payments were completed by the end of September. These payments covered only a portion of applicants.
A large number of students are still awaiting benefits.
Only 1.5 Lakh More to Receive Payment Now
Out of the remaining 3.80 lakh applicants, only 1.5 lakh will receive payment now. This is due to limited fund approval. The sanctioned Rs 750 crore allows payment to a fixed number.
Officials clarified that selection depends on verified certificates. Students who pass verification will be prioritized. Others may need to wait longer.
This has raised concerns among remaining applicants.
Nearly Two Lakh Students May Face Further Delay
Around two lakh eligible students may not receive payment immediately. Their incentive may be delayed until the next budget. Allocation during the upcoming financial cycle will decide further payments.
Officials admitted that the delay is unavoidable. Budgetary constraints have slowed down full disbursement. The process may take additional months.
Students have been advised to remain patient.
Graduate Incentive Scheme Started in 2018
The Graduate Incentive Scheme was launched in April 2018. At that time, eligible students received Rs 25,000 each. The scheme aimed to encourage higher education among girls.
From April 1, 2021, the incentive amount was increased. The revised amount became Rs 50,000 per student. The decision was taken to boost female education further.
Since launch, the scheme has expanded significantly.
Over 5.5 Lakh Girls Have Benefited So Far
Officials said more than 5.5 lakh graduate girls have already received incentives. The scheme is considered a major education reform. It has helped many students continue studies or seek employment.
The direct financial support has reduced dropouts. Families have welcomed the initiative. The scheme remains one of Bihar’s flagship education programs.
Its impact is visible across districts.
Aadhaar Verification Caused Earlier Delays
Significant delays occurred due to Aadhaar verification issues. Permission from Unique Identification Authority of India took time. Gazette notification and approvals consumed over six months.
After that, the process was again delayed. The election code of conduct stalled administrative work. Nearly one and a half months were lost due to elections.
These factors pushed payments far behind schedule.
Direct Transfer to Aadhaar-Linked Accounts
Authorities confirmed that payments will be transferred directly. Only Aadhaar-linked bank accounts will receive funds. Students were earlier asked to update account details.
Officials said this method ensures transparency. It also reduces chances of duplication or fraud. The system follows national direct benefit guidelines.
Students have been advised to check account status.
Education Department Monitoring the Process
The Education Department is closely monitoring the disbursement. Coordination with finance officials is ongoing. Universities are also assisting in verification work.
Officials assured that no eligible student will be ignored intentionally. Payments will continue in phases. Future installments depend on budget approvals.
The department remains committed to the scheme.
Students Hope for Faster Resolution
Many students expressed relief after the announcement. They hope payments will now arrive without further delay. The incentive is crucial for education and career plans.
Some students depend on this amount for higher studies. Others plan skill development or job preparation. The payment holds significant value for families.
Expectations remain high across the state.
Final Stage Before Disbursement Begins
With fund approval in place, the final stage has begun. Once money is released, bank transfers will follow. Officials expect completion within a month.
The process marks an important step for women education support. Bihar continues to focus on female empowerment through education.
Students now wait for the final confirmation message from banks.
