Ponnam Announces Hike in BC Study Circle Students’ Stipends

Karimnagar: The Telangana government has increased stipends and annual book allowances for students receiving competitive examination coaching at the State's 12 BC Study Circles, announced BC Welfare and Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, On Friday.

The monthly stipend for UPSC Civil Services aspirants has been increased from Rs 5,000 to Rs 7,000, while the annual book allowance has been doubled from Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000.

Similarly, students enrolled in foundation courses for TSPSC Group I, II, III and IV, banking, Railway Recruitment Board and Staff Selection Commission examinations will receive Rs 1,500 per month against the existing Rs 1,000. The revised stipends will come into effect from November.

In another decision, former BC Study Circle students who underwent Civil Services coaching during the past two years will be eligible for re-entry through a screening test. Selected candidates will receive the same stipend as fresh candidates, along with coaching and mentorship.

The Minister said the measures were aimed at supporting unemployed youth preparing for government recruitment examinations. He added that the stipend revision followed recommendations from an expert committee constituted to improve the performance of BC Study Circle students.

He also appreciated the educational displays at the Hyderabad BC Study Circle, where walls and staircases feature information on history, geography, the Constitution, economics and science and technology to support learning beyond classrooms.

Ponnam directed officials to establish study rooms in BC Study Circle buildings and take steps to provide digital library facilities.

BC Welfare Department Principal Secretary Rahul Bojja, Commissioner Bala Maya Devi and BC Study Circle Director Dr Mamidi Harikrishna, among others, were present.

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Venkat Thirungari

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