Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot has sharply criticized the BJP-led central government for its handling of a free coaching scheme aimed at Scheduled Caste (SC) and Other Backward Class (OBC) students. Speaking on Wednesday, Gehlot highlighted a parliamentary committee report that revealed only a small fraction of the intended beneficiaries have actually received coaching under the program.
Gehlot pointed out that in the 2023-24 period, just 223 students—representing 6.4 percent of the target of 3,500—were enrolled in the scheme. The situation was only slightly better in 2025-26, with coverage rising to 12.3 percent. Alongside this, he noted a significant budget cut, from Rs 47 crore initially allocated to just Rs 20 crore.
Background on the Free Coaching Scheme for SC and OBC Students
The free coaching scheme was designed to provide educational support to students from SC and OBC communities, helping them prepare for competitive exams and improve their chances of securing government jobs or higher education opportunities. The initiative is part of broader social justice efforts to uplift historically marginalized groups through targeted educational programs.
Rajasthan’s Congress government previously launched the Anuprati Coaching Scheme, which prioritized SC, Scheduled Tribe (ST), and OBC students, offering them dedicated coaching resources. This program was seen as a model for empowering disadvantaged students to compete on a more level playing field.
Key Facts from Gehlot’s Statement and Parliamentary Report
- Only 223 students received coaching in 2023-24, just 6.4% of the 3,500 target.
- Coverage improved to 12.3% in 2025-26, still far below expectations.
- The scheme’s budget was cut from Rs 47 crore to Rs 20 crore.
- The parliamentary committee described the government’s response to these issues as unsatisfactory.
- Gehlot accused the central government of deliberately reducing support while seeking votes from SC and OBC communities.
Why This Criticism Matters for Social Justice and Education
Gehlot’s comments underscore concerns about the central government’s commitment to social justice through education. By reducing funding and limiting access to coaching, critics argue that the government is undermining efforts to provide equal opportunities for marginalized students. This could have long-term impacts on the ability of SC and OBC youth to compete in competitive exams and secure employment or educational advancement.
The parliamentary committee’s report adds weight to these concerns, suggesting that the government’s approach may not be adequately addressing the needs of these communities. Gehlot’s call for accountability reflects broader debates about how best to support disadvantaged groups and ensure that social welfare programs achieve their intended goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the free coaching scheme for SC and OBC students?
A: It is a government initiative aimed at providing free coaching to students from Scheduled Caste and Other Backward Class communities to help them prepare for competitive exams and improve educational outcomes.
Q: Why is Ashok Gehlot criticizing the central government?
A: Gehlot alleges that the government has cut the scheme’s budget and failed to enroll enough students, limiting the program’s effectiveness and undermining social justice efforts.
Q: What impact could these funding cuts have?
A: Reduced funding and low coverage may hinder SC and OBC students’ access to quality coaching, affecting their chances in competitive exams and future opportunities.
