'₹300 cheque...': Yogi government trolled for Sanskrit scholarship scheme
What's the story
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has been criticized for giving cheques of ₹300 to ₹900 at the launch of the Sanskrit Scholarship Scheme. The event, conducted at Sampurnanand Sanskrit University, became a talking point on social media after videos from it went viral. Critics alleged the UP government used students for publicity. The scholarships were given to students of Sanskrit schools, colleges, and universities across the state.
Scheme launch
Adityanath's address and future plans for Sanskrit education
Speaking at the event, Adityanath addressed professors, students, and principals, thanking them for launching the scheme ahead of Diwali. He emphasized the importance of this initiative for India's language and culture. The chief minister also announced plans to revive residential Gurukul-style Sanskrit schools across Uttar Pradesh, as part of his government's commitment to promote Sanskrit education.
Language importance
Adityanath highlights spiritual essence of Sanskrit
Adityanath stressed on the spiritual importance of Sanskrit and said, "When one establishes a connection with God in devotion, they can comprehend the energy of Sanskrit." He was surprised how Sanskrit is still an unknown language to many but some students have kept its tradition alive. The CM also said since 2017, respect for Sanskrit has increased and so has the number of students learning it.
Student statistics
UP's Sanskrit student population and PM Modi's role
Currently, Uttar Pradesh houses 1.5 lakh students committed to learning Sanskrit and its culture. Adityanath credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership for the increasing interest in Sanskrit and Indian culture. He said, "Sanskrit isn't just a language; we want it to reach a higher level of communication around the world."