Haryana’s government has launched a free bicycle scheme for Scheduled Caste (SC) students in Classes 6, 9, and 11, targeting those living over 2 km from government schools. The initiative, effective from June 2025, aims to boost school attendance and reduce dropout rates. Students can purchase bicycles of their choice, with reimbursement up to ₹3,500 via Direct Benefit Transfer.
Haryana’s 2025 Free Bicycle Initiative for SC Students
The Haryana government has rolled out a renewed Free Bicycle Scheme for Scheduled Caste (SC) students, set to commence on June 13, 2025, aimed at enhancing access to education for students in government schools. This initiative, part of the state’s broader educational welfare programs, targets SC students in Classes 6, 9, and 11 who reside more than 2 kilometers from their schools. The scheme is designed to improve school attendance and curb dropout rates among economically disadvantaged students by addressing transportation barriers.
Under the scheme, eligible students can purchase bicycles of their choice, with the government reimbursing up to ₹3,500 per student through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. The reimbursement rates are tiered based on class and bicycle size: ₹2,800 for Class 6 students (20-inch bicycles), ₹3,100 for Class 9 students, and ₹3,300 for Class 11 students (22-inch bicycles). If the cost exceeds these amounts, parents or guardians must cover the additional expense. The initiative builds on a similar program introduced in 2018, which faced implementation challenges, including delays in fund disbursement, as reported by students in districts like Rohtak and Hisar.
To avail of the scheme, students must submit their bicycle purchase bills to their respective school authorities. The school head and management committee are responsible for verifying eligibility and facilitating the reimbursement process. The state’s Education Department has emphasized transparency, ensuring funds are transferred directly to students’ bank accounts. The scheme is expected to benefit over 10,000 SC students across Haryana in the 2025-26 academic year, with a focus on rural areas where commuting challenges are significant.
Haryana’s Education Minister highlighted the scheme’s alignment with the state’s commitment to inclusive education, noting that it complements other welfare programs like the Consolidated Stipend Scheme and the Free Books Scheme for SC students. The initiative also draws inspiration from similar programs in states like Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, which have successfully used bicycle distribution to promote education among marginalized communities. However, past issues with delayed reimbursements have raised concerns, and officials have assured stricter oversight to ensure timely fund transfers.
The scheme requires students to maintain at least 60% school attendance to remain eligible, a measure aimed at encouraging regular participation. Schools are tasked with maintaining records and submitting online proposals through the Har-Chhatravratti portal, streamlining the application process. The government has allocated ₹5 crore for the scheme in the 2025-26 budget, signaling a robust commitment to its success.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from government announcements, official websites like dbtharyana.gov.in and haryanascbc.gov.in, and reports from credible sources such as The Indian Express and Hindustan Times. Data is accurate as of July 5, 2025, and subject to change based on official updates. Readers are advised to verify details through official channels.