In a major digital empowerment push for students across Uttar Pradesh, the state cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has approved the procurement of 25 lakh free tablets under the Swami Vivekananda Yuva Sashaktikaran Yojana. To fund the initiative during the 2026-27 financial year, the state government has allocated a dedicated budget of ₹2,374.60 crore. Following the cabinet approval on Tuesday, purchase orders will be issued to vendor agencies selected through a competitive tender process to ensure smooth distribution across educational institutions.
Procurement Details and Core Objectives of the 5-Year Scheme
The tablet distribution drive forms a central pillar of the state's broader five-year roadmap aimed at bridging the digital divide among youth. By connecting students with modern technology, the government seeks to expand their access to higher education, skill acquisition, career training, and self-employment frameworks. The scheme is designed to help students complete their academic curricula efficiently while leveraging technology-backed learning platforms. Beyond coursework, these devices will enable recipients to access online vocational training, official public welfare schemes, and job portals.
Eligibility Criteria and Hassle-Free Distribution Process
The free tablet program covers registered students across a wide range of academic and technical disciplines. Beneficiaries include students enrolled in undergraduate and postgraduate degree programs, diploma courses, and skill development programs. Furthermore, youth registered in Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), higher education universities, technical education institutes, and health education streams are eligible to receive the devices.
To make the process seamless and transparent, the administration has clarified that students do not need to submit any individual online or offline applications. The tablets will be distributed directly through the respective colleges, universities, and training centers where the students are currently enrolled. Institutional enrollment data will serve as the sole baseline for identifying eligible candidates.
Ministerial Insights and Financial Allocation
Outlining the cabinet decisions, Minister of Finance and Parliamentary Affairs Suresh Kumar Khanna emphasized that seamless availability of digital tools will significantly improve training quality across technical and vocational sectors. Khanna noted that easily accessible technology enhances student employability and equips young workers to contribute meaningfully to service sector expansion and job creation.
The state administration also highlighted that the entire financial expenditure of ₹2,374.60 crore for the scheme will be borne entirely by the Uttar Pradesh government, ensuring zero additional financial burden on the Central Government.
