Government Free Laptop Scheme 2026: Empowering Students with Digital Education in India

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Namaste Dosto!

In the modern educational landscape, digital literacy is no longer an option—it is a necessity. To ensure that every student has the tools to succeed, several Indian state governments have launched Free Laptop and Tablet Schemes. These initiatives aim to bridge the digital divide, allowing students from economically weaker backgrounds to access online classes, research materials, and coding platforms.

In this comprehensive guide, we explore the latest state-wise laptop schemes, eligibility criteria, and the application process for 2026.

1. Overview of the Initiative

The Free Laptop Scheme is a welfare program designed to reward meritorious students and support those who cannot afford expensive hardware. While there is no single "Central PM Laptop Scheme," the State Governments take the lead in implementing these programs. Some states provide physical laptops, while others use Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to send cash directly to the student’s bank account.

2. State-wise Major Government Free Laptop Schemes

Uttar Pradesh (UP Free Tablet & Smartphone Yojana)

The Uttar Pradesh government has launched one of India’s largest digital drives under the "Digi Shakti" portal.

  • The Benefit: High-quality tablets or smartphones.

  • Target Group: Students enrolled in Graduation, Post-Graduation, Technical (B.Tech/M.Tech), Medical, and Skill Development courses (ITI/Polytechnic).

  • Selection: Priority is given to final-year students. Data is uploaded directly by educational institutions to the government portal.

Madhya Pradesh (Laptop Assistance Scheme)

In Madhya Pradesh, the government focuses on financial empowerment through the Pratibhashali Chhatra Protsahan Yojana.

  • The Benefit: ₹25,000 cash is transferred via DBT to the student's account to purchase a laptop.

  • Eligibility: Students who pass their Class 12 board exams with 75% or above.

  • Verification: Students can track their payment status using their Roll Number on the official MP Shiksha Portal.

Bihar (Kushal Yuva Program & Merit Support)

The Bihar government integrates digital support with skill development and academic excellence.

  • The Benefit: Free laptops or tablets for toppers and specific vocational students.

  • Eligibility: Students who have completed the Kushal Yuva Program (KYP) training or those who rank in state-level talent exams (like the Ramanujan Science Test).

  • Goal: To help students continue higher education using digital resources.

Rajasthan (Free Laptop Distribution Scheme)

The Rajasthan government rewards merit at the school level to encourage students to pursue higher studies.

  • The Benefit: Physical laptops distributed to approximately 28,000 students annually.

  • Eligibility: Students of Classes 8, 10, and 12 from Government Schools who score 75% or more in board exams.

  • Income Limit: Family annual income must be less than ₹1 Lakh.

Tamil Nadu (Free Laptop Scheme)

Tamil Nadu remains a pioneer in digital distribution, focusing on both school and college students.

  • The Benefit: Distribution of mid-range laptops through ELCOT.

  • Eligibility: Primarily for students of Government and Government-aided schools and colleges, specifically those entering 1st-year undergraduate or polytechnic courses.

Haryana (e-Adhigam Scheme)

Haryana focuses on a "returnable" model for school students to ensure 100% digital literacy.

  • The Benefit: Android tablets with pre-loaded educational content and a free 2GB daily data SIM card.

  • Eligibility: Students in Classes 10, 11, and 12 of Government schools.

3. General Eligibility Criteria

While rules vary by state, the basic requirements usually include:

  1. Residency: You must be a permanent resident of the respective state.

  2. Academic Merit: Most schemes require a minimum of 65% to 80% in the last qualifying board exam.

  3. Income Status: The family's annual income should be below the specified threshold (usually ₹2.5 Lakh).

  4. Institution Type: Benefits are usually reserved for students of Government or Government-aided institutions.

4. Documents Required for Application

To apply for these schemes, students should keep the following documents ready:

  • Aadhaar Card (Mobile-linked).

  • Income Certificate (Issued by a competent authority).

  • Domicile/Residence Certificate.

  • Class 10 or 12 Marksheet.

  • Bank Passbook (For cash transfer schemes).

  • Passport Size Photographs.

5. Important Note: Beware of Scams 

There is a lot of misinformation on social media regarding "National PM Free Laptop" links. Please remember:

  • Check the URL: Official government websites always end in .gov.in or .nic.in.

  • No Registration Fee: The government never asks for a "processing fee" for these laptops.

  • Official Sources: Always verify schemes via myScheme.gov.in.

6. Conclusion

Free Laptop Schemes are a significant step toward a Digital India. By providing the right tools to the youth, the government is ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder a student's potential. If you are eligible, contact your college administration or visit your state's official education portal today.

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