Ranchi: The state govt on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with University Polytechnic, BIT Mesra, under which up to 850 meritorious SC, ST and OBC students will receive free education, hostel accommodation and mess facilities every year.The agreement was signed between the state welfare department and University Polytechnic, BIT Mesra, at Project Bhavan in Ranchi.Under the arrangement, the state govt will provide financial support of Rs 79.40 crore over a period of 10 years and bear 85% of the institution’s recurring expenditure. The scheme is open to eligible students whose annual family income is below Rs 2.5 lakh, and admissions will be based on merit. The programme is being implemented from the academic session 2025-26.Officials said the partnership seeks to ensure that financial constraints do not prevent talented students from pursuing professional courses.BIT Mesra vice-chancellor Indrannil Manna said the varsity has served Jharkhand through quality technical education and that the partnership would help deserving students from rural and tribal communities gain access to professional training and better career opportunities.The govt and the institute have also drawn up plans to expand the University Polytechnic’s seat capacity in the coming years. New ITI trades and professional programmes are proposed, while additional hostel blocks and academic infrastructure are expected to be developed to accommodate future growth.
Representatives of the state welfare department and BIT Mesra during the MoU signing ceremony
