Delhi University Launches JAIHIND Scheme to Empower North East Tribal Students with Skills and CUET Training

The initiative targets students in Classes 9 to 12, providing them with sustainable livelihood skills and preparation for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) to enhance access to higher education.

The University of Delhi (DU) launched the Janajati Immersive Holistic Intervention for Novel Development (JAIHIND) scheme on June 17, 2025, aimed at empowering Scheduled Tribe school students from North East India’s remote areas with skill training and higher education opportunities.

The initiative targets students in Classes 9 to 12, providing them with sustainable livelihood skills and preparation for the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) to enhance access to higher education.

The two-week pilot program, running from June 17 to 29, 2025, includes 25 students (12 girls, 13 boys) from four government schools in Manipur’s Ukhrul district, all from the Tangkhul Naga tribe. Selected on merit, these students will receive training in skills tailored to their local context, such as pisciculture in artificial containers and fish feed production, addressing the absence of natural still water bodies in hilly regions.

They will also learn essential oil extraction using Kachai lemon (GI-tagged) and fragrant herbs, leveraging local resources. Additionally, the program offers CUET orientation to guide students toward central university admissions. DU Vice Chancellor Prof. Yogesh Singh urged the students to seize this opportunity, assuring them, “University of Delhi is ready to help you in every way.”

Chief Guest Dr. Vineet Joshi, Secretary of the Ministry of Education, described the scheme as a “golden opportunity” for students to gain skills and explore educational prospects. Reflecting on his experience in Ukhrul, he emphasized CUET’s role in securing admissions to central universities nationwide. Dr. Joshi also highlighted the Pradhan Mantri Vidyalakshmi Yojana, which provides financial assistance to meritorious students, ensuring higher education access without economic barriers. He encouraged students to use this experience to plan their academic futures effectively.

The JAIHIND scheme aligns with DU’s commitment to inclusive education, focusing on skill development relevant to tribal communities’ socio-economic contexts. By equipping students with practical skills and CUET knowledge, the program aims to bridge educational and economic gaps, fostering self-reliance and opportunities for higher studies. This initiative marks a significant step in empowering North East tribal youth, with plans to expand its reach in future iterations based on the pilot’s outcomes.