MARGAO: The Goa State Commission for Protection of Child Rights (GSCPCR) on Thursday issued a directive to the Directorate of Tribal Welfare (DTW) regarding the distressing matter of Rs. 2.17 crores in scholarship funds unclaimed by over 950 girl students.
“The directive to deposit unclaimed scholarships into the State treasury after a short notification period must be withdrawn. A more proactive and beneficiary-friendly approach should be adopted,” said the Commision to DTW.
GSPCR said it has taken suo moto cognizance following reports that these funds, allocated under the Vidya Laxmi scheme, remain unclaimed due to a lack of direct outreach.
“In an era where the State government champions the "Sarkar Tumchya Dari" initiative, aiming for doorstep delivery of transparent and efficient governance, this oversight contradicts our mission to meet the aspirations of the people, especially the young and vulnerable,” said GSCPCR Chairperson Peter F Borges.
“This situation has raised concerns about the potential neglect of girl children's educational opportunities, particularly within Scheduled Tribe communities. Our duty is to ensure that no child is left behind due to procedural neglect. These unclaimed scholarships represent not just funds, but unfulfilled aspirations of our girl students,” he added further.
To rectify this, the Commission has directed the Directorate to undertake immediate and enhanced outreach efforts to ensure that scholarships reach their intended recipients. Furthermore, the decision to revert unclaimed funds to the state treasury after a 90-day period has been declared unjust.
“A detailed action report, including strategies for enhanced direct outreach and steps taken to prevent future neglect, must be submitted to the Commission within 30 days,” the Commission added.