In India, where on one side we talk of caste and gender equality, on the other side there are a handful of people who’re dependent on caste-based reservations to gain acceptance in society. Castism is a necessary social evil that requires long-term remedy. Reservation is a short-lived solution to this problem that causes nothing but social unrest and prejudice—as evident from the recent Gurjar controversy in Rajasthan.
Following the verdict of honorable Supreme Court of India, 5 SBCs (Scheduled Backward Classes) in Rajasthan were denied special reservation to uphold the values of Indian constitution. Rajasthan Gurjars and the remaining castes are now included in the OBC (Other Backward Category) where they’ll have to fight for reservation with other communities.
In this situation, Rajasthan government’s Devnarayan scheme comes as a blessing in disguise for Gujjars. All thanks to the visionary Devnarayan scheme launched by Vasundhara Raje government, Rajasthan Gurjars get a chance to join a prestigious financial institution. To top it, they also get government aids to pursue their careers.
Devnarayan is an umbrella of various broad-ranging schemes to offer multiple benefits (livelihood, education, healthcare, women empowerment and social justice) to the Gurjar communities residing in Rajasthan. Here’s what Gujjar get under Devnarayan Yojana.
Anuprati Scheme & SBC Post-Matric Scholarships
The Anuprati scheme that has a budgetary outlay of Rs 50 lakhs per annum offers financial assistance to science scholars so they can pursue higher education and research in prestigious institutes like the IITs and IIMs.
Likewise, post-matric scholarships are offered to all SC/ST communities including the Rebaris, Gujjars, Gadia-Lohars and Banjaras to pursue higher degrees in science.
Devnarayan Adarsh Hostels/ Awasiya Vidyalaya/ Devnarayan Gurukul Yojana
41 fully-furnished hostels were constructed under Devnarayan Adarsh Hostel yojana and Awasiya Vidyalaya Yojana. The idea was to reduce the distance between school and homes. These in-campus homes were built for students in remote backward regions (9 districts of Rajasthan). SBC students studying in schools and colleges can stay in these hostels during their school/college life.
Likewise, Gurukul yojana focuses on developing ‘gurukul’ style schools for all-round development of their students.
Dev Narayan Girls College & Hostel Yojana
New hostels for girl students and working women were established in backward, Gujjar dominated districts like Bharatpur to promote education and employment for women. These hostels receive regular funds by the government and cater to the requirements of Gujjar women.
Devnarayan Girl’s Higher Education Financial Aid
Devnaryan scheme lays down special provisions for females including:
- Financial aid up to Rs 500 allotted to female students (for covering their travel expenses).
- Cycles and Scooties were distributed to meritorious girls that live far away from their schools and colleges.
Likewise, dedicated boys colleges are being run in areas like Nadauti where Gurjar boys can get proper education and develop practical skills for a flourishing career ahead.
Devnarayan Pratibhavaan Student encouragement Scheme
The policy aims at providing the toppers of Board and university examinations with a monthly allowance of Rs 350 per month as a reward for their hard work. This keeps them motivated to excel in higher classes.
Devnarayan Mobile Hospital Yojana
This scheme has been sanctioned with a budgetary allotment of Rs 5.5 crores for SBC tribes residing in Gurjar-dominated areas. It involves 10 mobile medical units that go door-to-door to provide medicines, injections, vaccines and necessary health care tips.
Dev Narayan loan and compensation Scheme
The scheme offers monetary help to the disadvantaged people so they can start their personal trades.
Irrespective of the fact that Rajasthan Gujjars will no longer get reservations, they can still do better by taking advantage of the Devnarayan schemes.
