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From Welfare To Fraud: How A Coaching Scheme Went Off Track
The Jai Bhim Mukhyamantri Pratibha Vikas Yojana was launched in 2017 with 8 empanelled coaching institutes, helping around 5,000 students, and expanded to nearly 22,000 beneficiaries by 2019. A government probe found large-scale misuse, including fake admissions and forged documents, with funds routed through common accounts and weak oversight. The findings point to governance gaps that undermined the welfare aims of the programme.
Why It Matters
The report exposes weaknesses in oversight and financial controls for public education schemes, risking public funds and student support programs. It highlights the need for stronger governance and accountability in welfare initiatives.
Timeline
4 Events
Governance and financial irregularities uncovered
May 2, 2026
Funds were released for coaching fees and student stipends, but instead of using separate, dedicated bank accounts, institutes allegedly routed money through common operational accounts, weakening financial oversight. The investigation also notes lack of Aadhaar linkage, minimal physical inspections, improper tendering procedures, limited verification by the Department of Education, and on-ground enrolment of students by institutes lacking basic infrastructure, with payments claimed under larger institutes for students attending small local centres.
Investigation finds fake admissions and forged documents
May 2, 2026
The probe has found evidence of fake admissions, duplicate entries, and forged documents. Nearly 1,000 listed beneficiaries are now suspected to be non-existent.
Expansion to 22,000 beneficiaries by 2019
2019
By 2019, it expanded rapidly, reaching nearly 22,000 beneficiaries.
Launch of Jai Bhim Mukhyamantri Pratibha Vikas Yojana
2017
The scheme was launched in 2017 with 8 empanelled coaching institutes, helping around 5,000 students.