Tamil Nadu Revives Free Laptop Scheme for College Students

Chennai—In a significant move to bridge the digital divide, the Tamil Nadu government has reintroduced the free laptop distribution scheme for college students, aiming to equip 20 lakh learners over the next two years.

Announced in the 2025–26 state budget, the initiative has earmarked ₹2,000 crore for the current fiscal year, with an equal allocation planned for the following year. This substantial investment underscores the administration's commitment to enhancing educational resources and digital literacy among youth.

The scheme, aptly named 'Ulagam Ungal Kaiyil' (The World is in Your Hands), is set to commence in early 2026. The first phase targets 10 lakh undergraduate final-year students across disciplines such as arts, science, engineering, medicine, law, agriculture, and polytechnic courses in government and government-aided institutions.

To ensure the quality and relevance of the devices, the Electronics Corporation of Tamil Nadu (ELCOT) has finalized procurement agreements with leading manufacturers including Dell, Acer, and HP. The laptops will feature Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 processors, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD storage, and a 15-inch display. They will come pre-installed with Windows 11 Home, BOSS Linux OS, and Microsoft Office 365, providing students with a robust platform for their academic pursuits.

In a forward-thinking addition, beneficiaries will receive a six-month free subscription to the Perplexity Pro AI platform, encouraging exploration into artificial intelligence and its applications.

Chief Minister M.K. Stalin emphasized the strategic importance of this initiative, stating, "The laptop is not a gift; it is an opportunity to rule the world. This is not an expenditure but an investment in the future generation's education." He urged students to utilize these tools effectively, study diligently, and choose paths that contribute positively to society.

Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin addressed concerns regarding the timing of the scheme, clarifying that the distribution is a fulfillment of budgetary commitments and not an electoral strategy. He assured that the rollout would proceed district-wise once colleges reopen after the holiday season.

To streamline the distribution process and prevent fraudulent activities, the Higher Education Department has instructed college principals to identify eligible students. Officials have cautioned against online scams related to the scheme, advising students to rely on official communications from their institutions.

This revival of the free laptop scheme aligns with Tamil Nadu's broader educational initiatives, including the 'Naan Mudhalvan' skill development program and monthly financial assistance for college students. By providing these resources, the state aims to foster a skilled, digitally literate workforce ready to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving global economy.

As the distribution date approaches, students are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and prepare to leverage this opportunity for their academic and professional growth.