The Sabooj Sathi Scheme is a student welfare initiative launched by the Government of West Bengal to provide free bicycles to students. The scheme aims to promote education and empower students—especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds—by ensuring they have reliable, eco-friendly transportation to and from school. It is implemented by the Department of School Education, West Bengal in collaboration with the Department of Panchayats and Rural Development.
Objectives
The primary objectives of the Sabooj Sathi Scheme include:
- Enhancing Educational Access:
Improving school attendance and retention, particularly among girls, by easing transportation challenges. - Encouraging Higher Studies:
Reducing dropout rates and motivating students to pursue secondary education. - Empowerment and Confidence Building:
Empowering students—especially girls—by enhancing their mobility and self-confidence. - Sustainable Development:
Promoting eco-friendly transportation, thereby contributing to reduced carbon emissions in line with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG3, SDG4, SDG5, and SDG13).
Benefits
- Educational Enhancement:
The provision of bicycles helps students attend school regularly. - Health Benefits:
Cycling promotes physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle. - Cost and Time Savings:
Reduces the time and financial burden of long, arduous commutes. - Environmental Impact:
Encourages an eco-friendly mode of transport, thereby reducing the carbon footprint. - Empowerment:
Particularly benefits girls by improving mobility and fostering a sense of independence.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Sabooj Sathi Scheme, the student must:
- Age Limit:
Be between 13 to 18 years of age. - Schooling:
Study in a government-run or government-aided school in West Bengal (private school students are not eligible). - Residency:
Be a permanent resident of West Bengal. - Family Income:
Have a family income not exceeding Rs. 2 lakh per annum. - Distance:
Reside at least 2 km away from their school. - Attendance:
Have at least 60% attendance in the last academic year. - Bicycle Ownership:
Not already own a bicycle. - Class:
Be studying in class IX to XII.
Exclusions
- Private School Students:
Only students in government and government-aided schools are eligible. - Non-Eligible Classes:
Students studying outside of classes IX to XII are excluded. - Income and Distance Requirements:
Students whose family income exceeds the limit or who live within the specified distance from school are not eligible. - Existing Bicycle Owners:
Students who already own a bicycle cannot apply.
Application Process
The general steps for applying under the Sabooj Sathi Scheme are:
- Access the Application Form:
Visit the official website of the Sabooj Sathi Scheme or the Education Department of West Bengal to download the application form. Alternatively, forms may be available at designated schools or local authorities. - Fill in the Details:
Complete the application form with the required information, including personal details, family income, distance from school, and attendance record. - Attach Required Documents:
Submit necessary documents such as a copy of the student’s Aadhaar card, family income certificate, and school attendance certificate. - Submission:
Submit the completed application form along with the documents to the school or designated authorities. - Distribution:
Once approved, the bicycle is distributed to the eligible student through the school or appropriate channels.
Note: The specific application process and required documents may vary slightly based on state guidelines. It is advisable to check the official website or contact local authorities for detailed, up-to-date instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Sabooj Sathi Scheme?
It is a government initiative in West Bengal providing free bicycles to students to enhance access to education and promote sustainable transportation. - Who is eligible for the scheme?
Students aged 13 to 18 studying in government or government-aided schools in West Bengal, with a family income under Rs. 2 lakh per annum, living at least 2 km from school, having at least 60% attendance, and not already owning a bicycle. - How can I apply for the scheme?
Download the application form from the official website or obtain it from your school, fill in the required details, attach the necessary documents, and submit it to the designated authorities. - What documents are required?
Typically, no documents are required directly for the scheme application as per available guidelines, but students should verify current requirements with local authorities. - What is the aim of the scheme?
The scheme aims to improve school attendance, reduce dropout rates, empower students (especially girls), and promote environmental sustainability. - Can a student who already owns a bicycle apply?
No, students who already own a bicycle are not eligible. - How are the bicycles distributed?
Distribution is carried out through the schools or designated authorities after successful verification of the application.