In a significant move, the Government of Assam has announced that starting next year, there will no longer be any gender-based unequal criteria for distributing scooters to meritorious students in the state. This decision comes after a controversy arose last year when the government introduced separate criteria for boys and girls to avail themselves of scooters.
Under the current system, girls must score 60% or above in their Higher Secondary (HS) Final Year exams conducted by the Assam Higher Secondary Education Council (AHSEC) to qualify for a scooter. On the other hand, boys are required to score 75% or more to be eligible for the same benefit.
This gender-based disparity has faced criticism and sparked debates about fairness in rewarding the hard work and achievements of Assam’s bright students.
However, the government has declared that the current system will be implemented for the last time this year. Starting from next year onwards, a common criterion will be set for all students, irrespective of gender, with a minimum score requirement of 75% or higher to qualify for a scooter.
This progressive decision aims to create an equitable environment for all meritorious students in Assam, eliminating any discriminatory practices based on gender and ensuring equal opportunities for both boys and girls in accessing this valuable incentive.
