Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has instructed the officials to devise a scheme to provide bank loans to students aspiring to do graduation and post-graduation in foreign countries at a nominal interest rate of 25 paise, without any cap on the number of beneficiaries.

He also wanted the scheme to be made applicable to students pursuing higher education in the IITs, IIMs, and medical courses through the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET).

Addressing a review meeting on welfare departments, at the Secretariat in Amaravati on Monday, Mr. Naidu said students availing those loans could repay in 14 years.

He told the officials to set up training centres in two regions to provide IIT and NEET coaching for BC students.

He suggested that the feasibility of converting existing hostels into residential schools be studied and a comprehensive report submitted.

The Chief Minister emphasised that upgrading hostels into residential schools would help ensure imparting of quality education, and ordered that repairs and upgrades be undertaken in SC, ST, and BC hostels wherever required, within a year. Due priority should be given to maintaining hygiene in residential schools and colleges.

Mr. Naidu said a portion of the funds allotted to the Thalliki Vandanam scheme be utilised for proper upkeep of school toilets.

He directed the officials to install solar power systems in all residential schools and hostels to reduce the electricity expenses.

Mr. Naidu said the welfare departments should take the responsibility of implementing the ‘One Family – One Entrepreneur’ programme. He instructed the immediate release of pending dues to Imams and pastors, and suggested extending the deadline for Haj applications.

Wakf properties

A fresh assessment of Wakf properties should be done to facilitate steps for protecting them. Necessary legal steps must be taken to ensure that the Backward Classes got 34% reservation in local bodies, Mr. Naidu added.

Ministers Dola Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy, N.Md. Farooq, and S. Savitha and senior officials were present.