No question of suspending ‘Yuva Nidhi’: Min

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: The state government remains committed to providing financial assistance under the Yuva Nidhi Guarantee Scheme for graduates and diploma holders as promised before the assembly elections. There is no question of suspending the scheme, clarified Minister for Medical Education, Skill Development, Livelihood Dr Sharan Prakash Patil. Responding to BJP MLC Arun’s question in the Legislative Council session on Monday, Dr Patil, who is also the Raichur incharge minister, assured that the government is determined to fulfil all pre-election promises. He dismissed rumours about discontinuing the scheme, reaffirming that the Yuva Nidhi will continue without disruptions.

Dr. Patil acknowledged that technical issues have caused delays in disbursing funds, but assured that these problems would be resolved soon. He emphasised that there is no shortage of funds, and payments will be made as per the scheme’s guidelines. "There is no fixed limit on the number of beneficiaries. The count will increase month-by-month and year-by-year. Next year, it may reach five lakh beneficiaries, and in the following years, it could grow to 10 lakh or more," he said, adding that every year, thousands of students complete their degrees and diplomas, making them eligible for the scheme.

To receive financial assistance, eligible candidates must register on the Seva Sindhu portal. So far, 1,74,181 students have benefitted from the scheme. After registration, applicants must wait for 181 days to receive the assistance. Currently, 49,000 students fall under this category. However, those who pursue further studies or secure jobs will not be eligible for the scheme benefits, he said. Once students complete their degrees or diplomas, they can immediately apply for the Yuva Nidhi benefits. The registration process is straightforward, requiring no external help.

The department has ensured all necessary arrangements for the smooth processing, the minister said. To assist rural youth, the government has set up information dissemination systems. Acknowledging that some minor technical issues may arise, Dr Patil urged students not to panic and to avail themselves of the scheme’s benefits.