Higher education beyond reach for Scheduled Caste/Tribe students; relaxation necessary in education loans

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Students belonging to SC/ST category are unable to join professional courses even if they pass the exam by scoring high marks. This is because of the rigidity in the bail conditions for getting financial assistance through banks. The bank authorities do not show even the slightest compromise on the matter that students need their own land in proportion to the financial assistance sanctioned or officials to stand on bail. There is also a stringent bail condition for loans given by the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation under the state government. The denial of loan comes at a time when banks will get a large share of the loan from the central government's credit guarantee fund in case of non-repayment of loans. Most of the members of scheduled castes/tribes do not have land or officials at home. Many students are deprived of great opportunities due to this. It is alleged that there is no positive approach on the part of the government against this plight.

Up to 10 lakhs

The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation provides education loans in three ways. Up to rupees four lakh within the state, a maximum of four lakh within India outside the state and up to Rs 10 lakh to go abroad for studies. The collateral should be proportionate to the loan amount. The loan has to be repaid within five years after completing the studies or getting a job. There is also a situation where many people are not sanctioned loans on time citing the inadequacy of funds.

"My daughter is studying final year for an aviation course. More than one lakh rupees is yet to be paid. The matter was informed to the Scheduled Castes Development Corporation also. Everyone is turning their face everywhere."

- Krishna Kumar, driver