Keonjhar/Sundargarh: A total of 84 academically-meritorious girl students from Barbil and Koira regions in Odisha have been awarded ‘Beti Padhao Scholarships’.
The scholarship is a flagship CSR initiative of ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India (AM/NS India) to bridge the financial barrier in education for girls of economically weaker sections and help them fulfil their academic aspirations. It is also aligned with the government’s efforts to promote the education of the girl child.
Barbil tehsildar Rakesh Kumar Panda presented the scholarships to the students in the presence of senior officials of AM/NS India – Mines Development head Sharanappa Kambalii, Mines Operations Senior General Manager Amit Kumar Dubey and Sagasahi Mines Manager Satyakama Das and Mining, Odisha, HR head Murali Sahoo.
“It is heartening to see efforts like this break financial barriers and create opportunities for young women to excel academically and professionally,” Panda said.
The scholarship recipients range from Class 9 students to those pursuing higher secondary education, undergraduate degrees, ITI, diplomas, engineering, medical, and other professional courses, as well as state-level and national-level athletes.
“Through the Beti Padhao Scholarships, AM/NS India reaffirms its commitment to empowering young women and fostering inclusive growth. By supporting their academic journeys, we are not only investing in individual potential but also strengthening the communities we serve. Education is a cornerstone of sustainable development, and we are proud to play a role in shaping a brighter, more equitable future,” Kambalii said.
AM/NS India has partnered with Protean eGov Technologies for mobilising the scholarships. The ‘Beti Padhao Scholarships’ are awarded to candidates meticulously shortlisted through a selection framework ensuring merit and need-based eligibility, a company release said.
