Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, Jun 13: In a major boost for tribal students aspiring to crack competitive exams, the Goa government on Thursday announced full reimbursement of coaching fees for Scheduled Tribe (ST) candidates preparing for NEET and JEE under the newly launched Bhagwan Birsa Munda Lakshya Siddhi Yojana.

The scheme, announced by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant in the 2025-26 State Budget, will benefit 300 meritorious ST students—150 each for NEET and JEE—based on a strict merit list.

As per the scheme details, students from families with an annual income of up to Rs 8 lakh will get 100% reimbursement, while those from higher income groups will receive 75% support, subject to a maximum of Rs 3 lakh per candidate for either exam.

To be eligible, students must have scored at least 65% in their SSC exams and should be enrolled in a recognised higher secondary school affiliated with either the Goa State Board or Central Boards.

The coaching must be undertaken through registered institutes recognised under the Societies Registration Act, Companies Act, or other relevant statutes. The scheme also covers both online and offline learning modes.

Importantly, students will have to declare that they are not availing of any similar coaching benefit from Central or State government schemes. Vacant slots, if any, will be reallocated to applicants of the alternate exam stream to ensure full utilisation of the 300-seat quota.