Introduction
In the modern era of digital education, access to technology is essential for students. Recognizing this, several Indian states have launched the Free Laptop Yojana to empower students, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds. The scheme aims to reduce the digital divide by providing laptops to meritorious students and those belonging to economically weaker sections.
Objective of the Scheme
The primary goals of the Free Laptop Yojana are:
- To encourage students to pursue higher education.
- To enhance digital literacy among youth.
- To provide equal access to online learning and digital resources.
- To support students in preparing for competitive exams and skill development.
Key Features
- Free distribution of laptops to eligible students.
- Laptops usually include basic productivity software like MS Office or Linux OS.
- Specifications include 8GB RAM, SSD storage, and webcam for online classes.
- Special reservation for SC/ST//NT/OBC categories.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicant must be an Indian citizen
- Must be enrolled in a government or government-aided school/college
- Minimum of 60% marks in the last qualifying examination
- Belong to BPL or EWS category
- Required documents: Aadhaar card, income certificate, mark sheet, caste certificate (if applicable), proof of residence
How to Apply
Students can apply for the Free Laptop Yojana through either online or offline methods, depending on the guidelines issued by the respective state government.
Online Application
Visit the official website of the scheme or your state education department.
Click on the “Free Laptop Scheme” link.
Register with your board roll number, date of birth, and mobile number.
Fill in the application form with academic and personal details.
Upload required documents like:
Marksheet
Domicile certificate
Caste certificate (if applicable)
Income certificate
Recent photograph
Submit the form and download the acknowledgment receipt for future reference.
Offline Application
Visit your school/college administration office or district education office.
Collect the application form and fill it manually.
Attach necessary documents and get them attested by the head of the institution.
Submit the completed form to the nodal officer or department in charge.
Keep a copy or receipt of the submission for tracking the application status.
List of Required Documents
- Passport-size photo
- Aadhaar card or valid ID proof
- Mark sheet of the last examination
- Income certificate
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Residence proof
- Bank account details
Benefits of the Scheme
- Enhancing digital skills and computer literacy among students
- Supporting preparation for competitive exams and self-learning
- Access to online courses and digital platforms
- Easy access to government portals and educational resources
Examples of Implementation in Various States
- Uttar Pradesh: For students who scored above 65% in 10th/12th standard
- Tamil Nadu: “Amma Laptop Scheme” for government school students
- Karnataka: Distribution to SC/ST students enrolled in technical courses
- Bihar: Laptop and financial aid through the Student Credit Card Scheme
- Madhya Pradesh: Free laptops under the Medhavi Student Incentive Scheme
Instructions for Students
- Check eligibility before applying
- Use only the official websites to apply
- Keep scanned documents ready in advance
- Regularly track your application status
- In case of issues, contact your school/college or the assigned nodal officer
How to Check Application Status
- Visit the scheme’s official website
- Click on “Track Application” or “Check Status”
- Enter your Application ID or registered mobile number
- View current status – Pending, Approved, or Rejected