TN Sets New Standard: 200,000 Laptops Distributed to Students Under Innovative Scheme
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In a significant move, the Tamil Nadu government has distributed 200,000 free laptops to eligible students across the state as part of its 'Ulagam Ungal Kaiyil' (The world is in your hands) scheme. The initiative, launched on Monday, aims to empower students with the latest technology and promote digital literacy. Former chief economic advisor Arvind Subramanian hailed Tamil Nadu as a model for development, citing its commitment to cooperative and competitive federalism. He emphasized the importance of the state's growth, saying, 'If India has to develop, then the Hindi heartland has to become what Tamil Nadu is today.' Chief Minister MK Stalin underscored the significance of the scheme, describing it as an investment in the future of students rather than an expense. He encouraged students to utilize the laptops for their education and not just for gaming, assuring them that the government would support their endeavors. The scheme not only provides laptops but also a six-month subscription to Perplexity Pro, a search engine powered by artificial intelligence. The government has allocated ₹2,000 crore for the initiative, with the first phase targeting students in government colleges and aided colleges who received government scholarships or joined through a 7.5% quota. Subramanian also highlighted Tamil Nadu's potential for growth, stating that investors view the state as a favorable destination due to its low risk profile. He emphasized the need for the state to ramp up its power and energy sectors to capture the future of digital and AI. The distribution of laptops comes on the heels of Chief Minister Stalin's announcement of a ₹3,000 cash dole for rice ration card holders and families living in rehabilitation camps for displaced Sri Lankan Tamil refugees, marking Pongal celebrations. The government's commitment to supporting its citizens and investing in their future is a testament to its dedication to growth and development.
