June 20, 2014
WB Govt`s Kanyashree scheme receives international recognition
Bengal`s unique “Kanyashree” project hasreceived international acclaim. It is indeed a matter of great pride andrecognition for the innovative scheme.
Department for International Development,United Kingdom and UNICEF have selected the scheme for presentation at the”Girl Summit” 2014 to be held at London. The State Government has been invitedto make a presentation of the scheme before a global audience.
“We are proud of our girl child. Theirall-round development and well being is of prime importance to us. We are goingto celebrate `Kanyashree Day` on 14th August throughout the state. Bengal indeedcontinues to show the way” wrote Chief Minister Ms. Mamata Banerjee on herFacebook page.
West Bengal government`s Kanyashree scheme, a programme initiatedto prevent girls from being married off at a young age by encouragingeducation, has benefited almost 9 lakh girls since its launch in October 2013.The state government has allocated Rs 287 crore for the programme for2013-2014.
According to the Kanyashree scheme, unmarried girls between the age of 13 and 18years, studying in Class VIII and XII in an institute affiliated to the stategovernment, are eligible for Rs 500 annual stipend. It had been found that mostgirl students drop-out of school while in Class VIII. The one-time Rs 25,000grant for unmarried girls between 18 and 19 years is also offered to enablethem to pursue higher education or a vocational or sports course in a state-governmentaffiliated institute.
