Gujarat’s government has launched a transformative scheme to provide free tablets to school students, announced on June 16, 2025. Aimed at enhancing digital education, the initiative targets over 10 lakh students across government schools. Equipped with educational apps and internet access, the tablets aim to bridge the digital divide, empower learning, and prepare students for a tech-driven future.
Gujarat’s Bold Step Toward Digital Education with Free Tablets
On June 16, 2025, the Gujarat government unveiled an ambitious initiative to distribute free tablets to over 10 lakh students in government schools, marking a significant step toward digital inclusion in education. The scheme, launched by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in Ahmedabad, aims to equip students from Classes 8 to 12 with modern tools to enhance learning and foster technological proficiency.
The tablets, preloaded with educational content, e-books, and access to online learning platforms, are designed to make education interactive and accessible. The initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasizing technology-driven learning. Each device comes with a year-long internet subscription to ensure students in rural and urban areas can access resources seamlessly.
Officials stated that the program targets students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to bridge the digital divide. The tablets, procured from leading manufacturers, feature parental controls and monitoring systems to ensure safe usage. The government has allocated ₹500 crore for the scheme, with plans to expand it to more grades in subsequent phases.
Education Minister Kuber Dindor highlighted the initiative’s potential to revolutionize learning. “This is not just about providing gadgets but empowering our youth with knowledge and skills for the 21st century,” he said during the launch event. Schools will also receive training modules to help teachers integrate tablets into classrooms effectively.
The scheme has been lauded by educators and parents alike. “This will level the playing field for students who lack access to technology,” said Rekha Sharma, a teacher in Surat. However, concerns about infrastructure, such as reliable electricity in rural schools, and the need for teacher training were raised by some stakeholders.
The initiative follows Gujarat’s earlier efforts to promote digital literacy, including smart classrooms and e-learning programs. With this scheme, the state aims to set a benchmark for tech-enabled education in India, potentially inspiring similar programs nationwide.
Disclaimer: This article is based on reports and announcements from official sources, including statements from the Gujarat government and education department, as of June 16, 2025. Information is subject to updates as the scheme progresses.