In a bold move to combat student absenteeism and improve learning consistency, the Indian government has rolled out a new pilot initiative offering a ₹600 cash reward for students who achieve 100% attendance in government schools. As of July 2025, this scheme is being tested in five states with plans to evaluate its success before broader implementation.
This attendance-based reward system is aimed primarily at students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds who often miss school due to financial or household obligations. The student reward scheme 2025 is designed to counter those pressures by providing a tangible benefit for consistent attendance, making education a more central priority within families.
States Selected for the 2025 Pilot Scheme
The following five states have been selected for the initial rollout based on attendance challenges and demographic diversity:
| State | Target Districts | Beneficiary Grades | Implementation Partner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | Varanasi, Bareilly | Classes 1–8 | State Education Dept. |
| Madhya Pradesh | Bhopal, Gwalior | Classes 1–8 | UNICEF Collaboration |
| Odisha | Cuttack, Koraput | Classes 1–8 | Local NGOs |
| Rajasthan | Jaipur, Barmer | Classes 1–8 | District Collectors |
| Assam | Guwahati, Dibrugarh | Classes 1–8 | School Admin Units |
The pilot is set to run from July to December 2025, with progress reports compiled monthly. A central dashboard is being maintained by the Ministry of Education to track attendance data, disbursement accuracy, and feedback from local stakeholders.
Why the Govt School Cash Policy Is Needed Now
The need for this govt school cash policy stems from the post-pandemic attendance crisis. Despite the reopening of schools, dropout rates remain concerningly high, especially among younger students. Officials observed that incentives tied directly to behavior, such as attendance, can foster better academic routines.
India’s existing schemes like the mid-day meal program have improved enrollment, but attendance remains a separate challenge. The cash reward offers an immediate, measurable reason for students to show up consistently, bridging the gap between access and actual learning.
How the Student Reward Scheme 2025 Works
Students who achieve 100% attendance in a given month will receive ₹600 via direct benefit transfer (DBT) into their parent or guardian’s bank account. Attendance will be verified through biometric systems or manual registers, depending on infrastructure availability.
To ensure fairness and prevent manipulation, the scheme includes:
- Random audits by third-party monitors
- Parent-teacher meetings for awareness
- Public display of attendance records at the school level
Additionally, students who maintain full attendance for three consecutive months will receive a bonus academic kit, including stationery, notebooks, and a learning aid tool (like an educational tablet or science kit).
Early Reactions and Outlook for Expansion
Initial feedback from parents and school staff has been positive. Teachers in Varanasi and Jaipur report improved daily turnout and punctuality. Education experts note that while ₹600 may seem modest, in low-income households, it can offset work-related absenteeism among children.
If successful, the pilot will be expanded nationwide by mid-2026. The Ministry has also hinted at scaling the reward amount for older grades and possibly tying it to academic performance or participation in extracurricular activities.
Conclusion
The ₹600 cash reward for attendance in govt schools – pilot in 5 states is a strategic experiment in linking financial incentives with educational outcomes. As India continues to refine its approach to public schooling, this scheme could become a key pillar of its student engagement efforts. By rewarding regular attendance, the government aims to not just fill classrooms, but to anchor learning in consistent, meaningful engagement.
FAQ
What is the student reward scheme 2025?
It is a government initiative providing ₹600 monthly to students in selected states for achieving 100% school attendance.
Which states are included in the pilot?
Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan, and Assam have been selected for the 2025 pilot rollout.
Who receives the ₹600 reward?
The cash is transferred to the parent or guardian of students in Classes 1 to 8 who attend school every day in a calendar month.
Is the scheme available nationwide?
Not yet. As of July 2025, it’s limited to five states as part of a pilot program.
How is attendance monitored?
Through school registers and biometric systems, depending on each school’s setup, with additional oversight by third-party monitors.
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