The 'Central Sector Scheme of Free Coaching Scheme (FCS) for SC and OBC students' is being implemented for providing coaching to economically disadvantaged Scheduled Castes and OBC students for competitive examinations. There is no similar specific scheme for Scheduled Tribe (ST) students. However Grant in Aid is provided to NGOs for running health and education projects for welfare of STs.

The selection is made using the central portal and funds are released directly to the beneficiary students through DBT. During the last 05 years w.e.f 2016-17 to 2020-21, 7250 beneficiaries have been coached, of which 1592 succeeded in qualifying exams for various posts or institutes.

This information was given by Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Shri. A. Narayanaswamy in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha today.

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MG/ RNM/ SB