Rajiv Gandhi scholarship scheme renamed after Swami Vivekananda
The Government of India renamed the Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship for Scheduled Caste students as the Swami Vivekananda National Fellowship. This decision was made to honor Swami Vivekananda’s contributions to the country and to inspire students from marginalized communities. The fellowship aims to provide financial assistance to SC students for pursuing M.Phil and Ph.D. programs.
Introduction:
The renaming of the Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship for Scheduled Caste students to the Swami Vivekananda National Fellowship marks a significant shift in the focus and ethos of the scholarship scheme. Here’s an elaboration on this change:
Historical Context:
The Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship was established to provide financial support to students from Scheduled Caste (SC) communities pursuing higher education. It was named after Rajiv Gandhi, a former Prime Minister of India, to honor his contributions to education and social welfare.
New Inspiration:
By renaming the fellowship after Swami Vivekananda, a revered Indian philosopher and spiritual leader, the government aims to inspire SC students with Vivekananda’s ideals of education, empowerment, and self-reliance. Swami Vivekananda emphasized the importance of education in the upliftment of individuals and society.
Focus on Empowerment:
Swami Vivekananda’s teachings and life are often associated with empowerment, self-confidence, and social reform. The renaming of the fellowship reflects a broader vision of empowering SC students not just financially but also intellectually and emotionally.
Symbolism:
The renaming is symbolic of a shift in emphasis from a political figure to a spiritual and intellectual leader. It highlights a change in the narrative surrounding education and empowerment of marginalized communities.
Continued Support:
Despite the renaming, the core objective of the fellowship remains unchanged—to provide financial assistance to SC students pursuing M.Phil and Ph.D. programs. The scholarship continues to support students in their academic pursuits, now under a different name that carries a different set of values and ideals.
Conculsion:
The renaming of the scholarship scheme was seen as a symbolic gesture to align it with the ideals and values espoused by Swami Vivekananda. It was also intended to inspire students from marginalized communities to pursue higher education and contribute to the development of the nation.
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