Sabooj Sathi Scheme, Launch, Objectives and Eligibility

Sabooj Sathi Scheme is a major student-support initiative launched by the West Bengal government. The scheme provides free bicycles to students studying in classes 9 to 12 so they can travel to school without difficulties. With better mobility, students—especially those in rural and remote areas—are able to attend school regularly, reducing dropouts and improving access to education.

What is Sabooj Sathi Scheme?

The Sabooj Sathi bicycle scheme is a government welfare scheme of West Bengal. Under this scheme, free bicycles are distributed to eligible students so that they can commute to school easily. The scheme enhances learning opportunities, promotes rural education, and enhances student empowerment. The sabooj sathi scheme and other government welfare schemes are frequently asked questions in the exams.

Origin and Launch of Sabooj Sathi Scheme

Sabooj Sathi was launched by the Chief Minister of West Bengal Mamata Banerjee in 2015. The scheme was started for the welfare of the students of all the districts of West Bengal. The sabooj sathi bicycle scheme is one of the largest student welfare initiatives of the state of India.

Objectives of the Sabooj Sathi Scheme

The scheme has several key objectives:

• Enhance School Attendance: Reduce absenteeism by easing travel.

• Reduce Dropout Rates: Encourage students to complete their education.

• Empower Students: Provide independence in commuting.

• Promote Girl Child Education: Support girls in reaching distant schools.

• Boost Social Mobility: Help economically weaker sections access education.

Eligibility Criteria of Sabooj Sathi Scheme

There are few rules that the students need to follow to get a free bicycle under the sabooj sathi scheme. These rules help to make sure that the scheme’s benefits go to the right people.

• They must be studying in classes 9, 10, 11, or 12.

• They must attend a government school, government-aided school, or a Madrasah.

• Students must be residents of West Bengal.

• All eligible students, irrespective of gender, receive benefits.

Sabooj Sathi Benefits 

The major benefits of Sabooj Sathi scheme are:

• The free bicycles provided by the sabooj sathi scheme helps the students in covering long-distance travel issues.

• The scheme facilitates easy school attendance and regular attendance.

• It also inculcates a sense of equality by supporting rural and underprivileged students.

• The scheme is an ideal way of empowering girl child education.

• It is cost-effective for the families as there is no transport cost.

• The students gain more independence and reach school on time every day.

Implementation Body

The Backward Classes Welfare Department of West Bengal manages the scheme. They oversee procurement and distribution. Local self-government bodies also help in implementation.

Application and Selection Process of Sabooj Sathi Scheme

Schools identify eligible students based on criteria. They collect necessary details and submit them to the district authorities. There is no direct application by students. The school handles all formalities.

Distribution Process

Bicycles are procured centrally by the state government. They are then delivered to distribution camps. These camps are often set up at block or sub-division levels. Students receive their cycles at these designated camps. School authorities ensure smooth wb student cycle distribution to beneficiaries.