Sabooj Sathi is a student welfare scheme of the West Bengal government that provides free bicycles to students studying in government and government-aided schools. Designed for classes IX to XII, the scheme helps students cover their travel to school and stay in education no matter what their family's financial situation is.
The scheme has been running since the 2015-16 financial year and the state government has so far distributed more than 1.20 crore bicycles under it. The official portal for the scheme is wbsaboojsathi.gov.in, where students can check their beneficiary status and file complaints.
Sabooj Sathi - Introduction
Sabooj Sathi is a student welfare scheme launched by the West Bengal government to give free bicycles to students in the state. The scheme distributes bicycles free to students studying in government, government-aided and government-sponsored schools from classes IX to XII.
Sabooj Sathi supports education and helps students, especially those from poor families, by giving them a reliable way to travel to and from school. The scheme was launched in March 2015 and the first bicycles were handed out in West Midnapore in October 2015.
The Backward Classes Welfare Department runs the scheme with the support of the school education department. The scheme logo is placed on the basket in front of the bicycle given to students. Since it began, the government has distributed over 1.20 crore bicycles to help students across the state.
This scheme focuses on improving student access to secondary and higher secondary education. The main aims include:
- Keeping students in school: A bicycle reduces the travel problem, so students attend classes more regularly.
- Encouraging higher studies: With easy transport, students are more likely to continue their education after class VIII.
- Building confidence in girls: A bicycle gives girl students more freedom and safer travel, which helps them stay in school.
- Promoting a clean and healthy way to travel: Cycling keeps students fit and cuts down on pollution.
These goals match the global sustainable development targets related to good health, quality education, gender equality and climate action.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Sabooj Sathi |
| Level | State |
| Beneficiary State | West Bengal |
| Category | Social welfare and empowerment |
| Target Beneficiaries | Students of classes IX to XII |
| Benefit Type | Free bicycle |
| Nodal Department | Backward Classes Welfare Department, Govt. of West Bengal |
| Launch Date | March 2015 |
| Application Mode | Offline |
| Official Website | wbsaboojsathi.gov.in |
Benefits
Sabooj Sathi offers several advantages to support the academic journey of students:
Encourages Education: A bicycle helps students attend school regularly without worrying about transport.
Health Benefits: Cycling keeps students physically fit and supports a healthy lifestyle.
Saves Time and Money: Students save both travel time and money that they would otherwise spend walking long distances.
Environmental Gains: Choosing a bicycle reduces carbon emissions and helps keep the environment clean.
Empowerment: The scheme supports independence, especially for girl students, making travel safer and easier.
Enhanced Mobility: Students living in remote areas can reach their classroom daily with a bicycle of their own.
Reduces Dropout Rates: With reliable transport, students find it easier to finish their higher studies.
Eligibility
A student should meet the following criteria to receive a bicycle under Sabooj Sathi:
- Age: The student should be between 13 to 18 years of age.
- Schooling: The student should study in a government-run, government-aided or government-sponsored school in West Bengal.
- Residency: The student must be a permanent resident of West Bengal.
- Family Income: The family income should not exceed rupees 2 lakh per year.
- Distance: The student should live at least 2 km away from the school.
- Attendance: The student must have at least 60% attendance in the previous academic year.
- Ownership: The student should not already own a bicycle.
- Class: The student must be studying in classes IX to XII.
Exclusions
- Students attending a private school are not eligible for this scheme.
- The scheme is strictly for students in classes IX to XII.
- Students who are not residents of West Bengal cannot apply.
- Families with an annual income above rupees 2 lakh will not qualify.
- Students who live within a very short distance of the school may be excluded.
- Students who already own a bicycle should not apply for a new one.
- Poor attendance records or a history of dropping out make a student ineligible for the support.
Application Process
Sabooj Sathi is an offline scheme, so students apply through their school. Follow these steps to apply for the bicycle:
STEP 1 - Check the official rules given by the school administration or on the official portal wbsaboojsathi.gov.in.
STEP 2 - Collect an application form from the school or the relevant local authority.
STEP 3 - Fill out the form with correct details such as personal information, family income and distance to the school.
STEP 4 - Attach the required documents, including the Aadhaar card, family income certificate and school attendance record.
STEP 5 - Submit the completed form to the school office or the designated officer.
STEP 6 - Once officials approve the request, the school will distribute the bicycle to the student.
Documents
Keep these documents ready while applying:
- Aadhaar Card of the student
- School Identity Card issued by a government or government-aided school
- Family Income Certificate to confirm the income limit
- Mobile Number for communication and updates
Definitions
Definition 1
Government-run Schools: Schools fully managed and funded by the state government.
Government-aided Schools: Schools that receive partial funding from the government while keeping private or non-governmental involvement.
Family Income Certificate: An official document that verifies household income to confirm if the family falls under the rupees 2 lakh limit.
School Attendance Certificate: A formal record from the school confirming the required 60% attendance rate.
References
FAQ's
What is Sabooj Sathi?
Sabooj Sathi is a West Bengal government scheme that provides free bicycles to students in government and government-aided schools to help them attend classes easily.
Who is eligible for Sabooj Sathi?
Students aged 13 to 18 who study in government or government-aided schools, reside in West Bengal, have a family income below rupees 2 lakh, live 2 km away from school and have 60% attendance are eligible.
How can I apply for Sabooj Sathi?
You should collect an application form from your school, fill it out, attach your Aadhaar card and income proof, and submit it to your school authorities.
What are the required documents?
You need your Aadhaar card, school identity card, family income certificate and proof of attendance.
What is the aim of Sabooj Sathi?
The scheme aims to reduce student dropout rates, encourage higher education and promote a healthy, eco-friendly lifestyle.
Can a student who already owns a bicycle apply?
No, the scheme is for students who do not have their own bicycle.
How are the bicycles distributed?
Your school will distribute the bicycle once your application is verified and approved by the local authorities.
Is Sabooj Sathi for private school students?
No, this scheme is specifically for students in government and government-aided schools.