In a major step towards uplifting tribal youth, the Goa government has introduced the “Bhagwan Birsa Munda Lakshya Siddhi Yojana”, a dedicated scheme to support Scheduled Tribe (ST) students preparing for NEET and JEE entrance examinations. Announced by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant in the State Budget 2025–26, the initiative aims to improve access to quality coaching by offering full and partial fee reimbursements.
As per the scheme, ST students from families with an annual income of up to ₹8 lakh will be eligible for 100% reimbursement of coaching fees. Those with income above ₹8 lakh will receive 75% reimbursement, subject to a ceiling of ₹3 lakh for each course—NEET or JEE. A total of 300 students will be selected purely on merit, equally divided between NEET and JEE aspirants. Unfilled seats in one category may be reallocated to the other, but the total number of beneficiaries will remain capped at 300.
To qualify, students must have secured at least 65% in their SSC examinations and be regular, full-time students in a Higher Secondary School recognized by the Goa Board or any Central education board. Coaching must be pursued at institutions registered under the Societies Registration Act, Companies Act, or any applicable State legislation.
The scheme covers both online and offline modes of coaching. Beneficiaries will be required to submit a declaration confirming they are not availing similar benefits under any other State or Central coaching schemes.
This forward-looking initiative underscores the government’s focus on inclusive education and aims to level the playing field for ST students in Goa by enhancing their prospects in national-level competitive exams.