Nara Lokesh Assures Students: Fee Dues Cleared, No Hurdles for Education
In a significant move to support higher education, the Andhra Pradesh coalition government has released approximately ₹1,200 crore towards fee reimbursement and scholarships. Human Resources Development Minister Nara Lokesh announced on Tuesday that the funds were sanctioned through Budget Release Orders (BROs) to ensure immediate relief for lakhs of students.
Acting on the directives of the Chief Minister, the Finance Department cleared a total of ₹1,198 crore in Reimbursement of Tuition Fee (RTF) funds for the 2024-25 academic year. The release is aimed at alleviating the financial burden on Backward Classes (BC), Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), and minority students.
Breakdown of Allocations:
- BC Students: ₹735 crore (released in tranches of ₹258 crore and ₹477 crore).
- EWS (EBC & OC): ₹365 crore.
- Minority Students: ₹98 crore.
Addressing the students and parents via social media, Nara Lokesh reiterated the government's dedication to the education sector. "Our promise to students and parents is clear: there will be no hurdles to education henceforth. We are committed to clearing all pending dues and ensuring timely assistance in the future," he stated.
Urging students to pursue their academics with confidence, the Minister added, "Your government is with you; study with courage." The administration aims to regularize these payments to prevent future arrears, ensuring that students can focus on their careers without financial stress.