The Government of Assam has continued its popular initiative to distribute free bicycles to Class IX students in government and provincialised schools. The scheme aims to make education more accessible, especially for rural students, by easing their daily commute and reducing dropout rates.
Over the past few years, the government has distributed around 6.93 lakh bicycles, and nearly 3 lakh more will be provided during the current academic year.
Key Features of the Scheme
| Feature | Details |
| Beneficiaries | Class IX students of government and provincialised schools |
| Cycles Distributed So Far | Approximately 6.93 lakh |
| Distribution Target (2025) | Around 3 lakh more bicycles |
| Objective | To reduce dropout rates and improve school attendance |
| Fund Allocation (Approx.) | ₹125–150 crore annually |
| Implementing Department | Assam Education Department |
Objectives of the Bicycle Scheme
- Reduce Dropout Rates: Many students in rural and semi-urban areas face difficulties reaching school due to long distances. The scheme helps them continue their education without interruption.
- Promote Attendance and Punctuality: Easy mobility ensures regular attendance and reduces late arrivals.
- Empower Rural Students, Especially Girls: Bicycles make commuting safer and more independent for female students, promoting gender equality in education.
- Encourage Higher Enrolment: The scheme supports Assam’s broader goal to achieve universal secondary education and higher retention rates.
Benefits and Impact
- Improved Accessibility: Students can travel to school conveniently even in areas with poor transportation.
- Higher Retention: Dropout numbers have shown a steady decline since the scheme began.
- Empowerment of Girl Students: Bicycles improve safety, dignity, and self-reliance.
- Reduced Financial Burden: Families no longer have to bear daily travel costs.
Challenges
- Ensuring proper maintenance and long-term usability of bicycles.
- Guaranteeing equitable distribution in remote or hilly areas.
- Maintaining data transparency and tracking beneficiaries effectively.
Conclusion
The Free Bicycle Scheme has emerged as one of Assam’s most impactful student welfare programs. By combining mobility, education, and empowerment, it helps bridge the rural-urban gap in access to schooling. With continued government support, the initiative is expected to play a lasting role in reducing dropouts and building a more inclusive education system across the state.
FAQs
1. What is the purpose of the Free Bicycle Scheme in Assam?
Ans: The scheme aims to help Class IX students commute easily to school, especially in rural areas, and reduce dropout rates.
2. Who is eligible to receive the free bicycles?
Ans: All Class IX students studying in government and provincialised schools of Assam are eligible.
3. How many bicycles have been distributed so far?
Ans: Around 6.93 lakh bicycles have already been distributed, with another 3 lakh planned for this year.
4. How does the scheme help in reducing dropouts?
Ans: Providing bicycles ensures regular attendance, minimizes travel fatigue, and prevents students from quitting school due to distance or transport issues.
5. Which department implements the scheme?
Ans: The Assam Education Department oversees the implementation and monitoring of the Free Bicycle Scheme.
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