Chennai: In Tamil Nadu, 40,168 government school students have benefited from the 7.5% reservation policy in the past four years, according to Higher Education Minister Govi Chezhian.

Highlighting the achievements of the DMK government, the Minister noted that schemes such as Pudumai Penn and Tamil Pudhalvan have significantly boosted higher education opportunities for women and government school students, respectively.

To support government school students in pursuing professional courses like engineering, medicine, and agriculture, the 7.5% reservation policy was introduced. The government fully funds their education costs, including tuition, accommodation, and transportation.

Over the last four years, Rs. 1,165 crore has been allocated under this scheme, enabling 40,168 students to pursue higher education. This includes:

35,530 students in vocational courses
2,382 students in medical courses
1,369 students in agricultural courses
261 students in animal husbandry and fisheries
626 students in law
The Minister credited Chief Minister Stalin for spearheading initiatives that remove barriers to education for government school students, ensuring inclusivity and equal opportunities.

The DMK government, committed to its vision of social justice under the motto "Everything for everyone," continues to work toward a future without discrimination, he said.