In this post, we have covered essential information as the announcement that first-year college students will get free tablets in these states has been made.
First-Year College Students to Get Free Tablets in These States
In a significant move to promote digital equity, several Indian states have announced plans to distribute free tablets to first-year college students starting from the 2025–26 academic session. The initiative is designed to support students from economically weaker backgrounds and enable them to access e-learning platforms, digital libraries, and online lectures with ease.
This step aligns with the National Education Policy 2020, which advocates for greater integration of technology in the education system. The goal is to ensure that students are not left behind due to lack of digital access as colleges increasingly adopt hybrid and online modes of learning.
States Leading the Initiative
As of June 2025, the following states have officially confirmed the launch of tablet distribution programs for college freshmen:
| State | Target Beneficiaries | Launch Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Uttar Pradesh | 10 lakh first-year students | July 2025 |
| Tamil Nadu | Government college students | August 2025 |
| Rajasthan | SC/ST/OBC and girl students | September 2025 |
| Chhattisgarh | Rural area colleges | August 2025 |
| Assam | Students in government-funded colleges | October 2025 |
These states are primarily focusing on students enrolled in government and government-aided institutions, where access to digital infrastructure remains limited.
Features and Utility of the Tablets
The tablets being distributed are not just entry-level devices. Most state governments have partnered with tech manufacturers to ensure the tablets come preloaded with:
- National Digital Library access
- E-content from SWAYAM, DIKSHA, and NPTEL platforms
- Educational apps like Byju’s, Khan Academy (in regional languages)
- Offline e-book storage
- College-specific attendance and assignment apps
Additionally, many of the devices will come with free internet data packs for 6 to 12 months, depending on the state’s policy.
Bridging the Learning Divide Post-COVID
The initiative is a direct response to the learning gaps exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. In rural and semi-urban areas, students without access to smartphones or laptops were disproportionately affected.
This move is expected to bridge the digital divide by allowing real-time access to course materials, virtual classes, and online assessments. Colleges are also working on digital training sessions to help first-generation learners adapt to the technology effectively.
Student and Academic Reactions
Educators and students have largely welcomed the move. “This is a game-changer, especially for students from tribal and remote regions who often travel long distances just to access study material,” said a principal from a government college in Jharkhand.
Students are equally enthusiastic. A first-year student from Tamil Nadu stated, “I no longer need to depend on my friend’s phone to watch lectures. This tablet gives me independence and confidence.”
Future Expansion and Monitoring
The central government is reportedly in talks with more states to expand the initiative nationwide under a centrally supported scheme. Discussions are also underway to link the distribution with academic performance tracking, allowing students to access personalized feedback and mentoring via digital tools.
The Ministry of Education is forming a task force with the following objectives:
- Track usage patterns of distributed devices
- Monitor digital attendance and engagement
- Suggest upgrades or renewals every two years
- Prevent misuse of government-provided gadgets
These steps aim to ensure the long-term impact and sustainability of the scheme.
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