Speaking at the event, Indian High Commissioner Santosh Jha said the programme is intended to assist academically talented students from low-income families, helping them pursue higher education without financial difficulties and improve their future prospects.
The initiative, which takes effect from the 2025–2026 academic year, is an extension of a scholarship scheme launched in 2023–2024. Under the earlier programme, 100 students received a monthly allowance of Rs. 5,000 based on academic achievement and financial need.
Following favourable responses and requests to continue the scheme, the Indian Government announced its expansion during the state visit of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to India in December 2024. During the visit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledged increased support for students of both the University of Jaffna and the Eastern University.
Under the upgraded programme, 100 first-year undergraduates will receive a monthly grant of Rs. 7,500, with assistance continuing for the duration of their degree studies. The number of beneficiaries is expected to increase each year, reaching 400 students by the fourth year of implementation.
The scholarship programme forms part of India’s wider development assistance in Sri Lanka’s education sector, which also includes investments in school infrastructure, building renovations, student transport facilities, and digital learning initiatives across the country.
