Overview

• On July 7, the Ministry of Social Justice formally reminded all SHRESHTA participants that no fees or additional charges may be levied on Scheduled Caste students under the scheme
• The warning follows numerous complaints of schools demanding deposits for admission, uniforms, books, medical expenses, security deposits, picnic fees and stationery
• SHRESHTA currently serves about 15,000 Scheduled Caste students nationwide and will add 3,000 seats in classes IX and XI for the 2025-26 academic year
• Beneficiaries are placed in private and voluntary residential schools through an NTA-administered entrance test and receive full reimbursement for tuition, boarding and related costs
• Schools found in violation risk CBSE-led financial penalties, blacklisting and potential removal from the programme