Kanyashree College in every district: CM
Kolkata: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday announced that a Kanyashree College will be set up in each district to celebrate the project that has witnessed huge success so far in the state.
Banerjee attended a programme organised at Nazrul Mancha to celebrate the "Kanyashree Divas" which is observed on August 14 since its inception six years ago.
Speaking on the occasion, Banerjee said: "The Kanyashree project started in schools initially and was later introduced in college and university levels as well so that all girl students can avail various facilities under the scheme. It was started six years ago and now it has evolved into one of the most important schemes. It has also been honoured with the United Nations for Public Service award in 2017. We are thankful to the UN for giving us this recognition. Kanyashree is the only scheme in the world after which a day is celebrated."
The Chief Minister said her government has spent over Rs 7,000 crore on the scheme since 2013. Describing girls as assets of the world, Banerjee said the Kanyashree scholarship has helped them in schools, colleges and universities in realising their dreams.
"Our government has been providing scholarship of Rs 2000 for Arts students and Rs 2500 for Science students at the university level. Those who want to pursue higher studies after completing Masters will be able to avail Swami Vivekananda scholarship. The state government is also extending financial assistance for those who are doing research," Banerjee further added.
Addressing the students, she stated: "I have many expectations from our Kanyashree girls. You all have to become good human beings in life. Girl students have equal IQs compared to the boys. A girl has the ability to achieve what a boy can do. We have to make the girls self-reliant. Don't develop hatred for anyone and never cultivate arrogance. Don't be envious of anyone and widen your mind."
Assuring that the state government will ensure that girl students from Bengal reach the zenith of success, Banerjee said: "Don't get nervous over anything. The government will provide every support to the students. Don't be frustrated at any point in time. You all have to dream big and achieve a lot of things in life. Our job is to help you achieve your goal. Try to get rid of anything that is bad and uphold the good."
The Chief Minister also pointed out that the Kanyashree scheme has helped to check early marriages and reduced the school dropout rate in the state.
"If anybody studies in an English-medium school, do not consider yourself superior. Learn other languages, but do not forget your mother tongue. There is no harm in studying in English-medium schools but it is important to learn your mother tongue and be respectful towards it."
