Chennai: Distribution of free laptops to over three millions students across the state is likely to be listed as a major achievement of the government by the AIADMK, the ruling party of the state.
The state government has accomplished the task of distributing 31,76,018 laptops at a cost of Rs 6,456.44 crore to students since September 15, 2011, achieving 100 per cent target.
This was disclosed in a review meeting conducted by minister for information and publicity and implementation of special programme K.T. Rajenthra Bhalaji in Chennai on Wednesday.
The scheme was launched by Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa in Kakkalur village in Tiruvellur district on September 15, 2011, on the birth anniversary of former Chief Minister Anna.
The objective was to enable students with technical skills so that they can compete effectively in the employment market. Tamil Nadu has already emerged as a favoured destination for IT companies.
At present, computer is an essential educational tool for the student community. Also, poor students need to be equipped with a strong IT knowledge base to emerge victorious and secure employment.
During 2011-12 and 2012-13, students of government and government-aided schools, arts and science colleges, engineering colleges and polytechnics were provided with laptops.
From 2013-14, plus-2 students in government and government aided schools and first year students of government and government aided polytechnics benefited under the scheme.
The scheme has been a great success and the project has been replicated by other states.
