In an ambitious move to transform the educational landscape, the Delhi Government has announced free laptops for Class 10 students as part of its massive ₹19,291 crore education budget for the fiscal year 2025-26. This progressive step aims to bridge the digital divide, promote digital literacy, and empower students through technology, especially those who excel academically.
The initiative is not just about distributing gadgets—it’s a broader commitment to enhancing the quality of education, providing equal learning opportunities, and preparing students for a digital future. Let’s dive into what this means for students, parents, and education professionals in Delhi.
Free Laptops for Class 10
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Education Budget | ₹19,291 crore for 2025-26 |
| Free Laptop Beneficiaries | 1,200 top-performing Class 10 students |
| Allocation for Laptops | ₹7.5 crore |
| CM Shri Schools | 60 new NEP-aligned schools with ₹100 crore allocation |
| New Computer Labs | 175 labs with ₹50 crore budget |
| Smart Classrooms | 7,000 upgraded with ₹100 crore allocation |
| Language Labs | 100 labs with ₹21 crore allocation |
| Education Hub in Narela | Planned with ₹500 crore investment |
| Entrepreneurship Training (NEEEV) | New curriculum with ₹20 crore funding |
| Teacher Training & Development | ₹50 crore earmarked for training programs |
| Scholarships for Higher Education | ₹100 crore set aside for underprivileged students |
| Official Website | edudel.nic.in |
The Delhi Government’s initiative to provide free laptops to Class 10 students is more than a giveaway—it’s a strategic push toward education equity, digital empowerment, and academic excellence. With a historic ₹19,291 crore budget, the capital is making clear strides toward inclusive, future-ready education. Whether you’re a student, parent, teacher, or policymaker, these changes open up new possibilities for growth and innovation in the education sector.
Why Free Laptops for Class 10 is a Game-Changer
The decision to provide free laptops to 1,200 meritorious Class 10 students is a direct investment in Delhi’s future. At this crucial academic stage, students transition to higher secondary education, which demands greater access to digital tools for research, assignments, online classes, and more.
Bridging the Digital Divide
During the pandemic, digital access became essential. Yet, many students lacked basic tools like laptops. This move ensures that bright students are not held back due to financial limitations.
Rewarding Academic Excellence
The selection of top performers encourages healthy academic competition and motivates students to aim higher.
Building Digital Skills Early
The laptop program aligns with India’s broader push for Digital India by nurturing tech-savvy learners from an early age.
A Closer Look at the ₹19,291 Cr Education Budget
The 17.7% increase in the education budget from the previous year reflects Delhi’s ongoing commitment to educational reform. Here’s how the funds are being utilized:
CM Shri Schools
Delhi will open 60 new CM Shri schools, modeled on the National Education Policy 2020 and NCFSE 2023. These schools will offer state-of-the-art facilities, activity-based learning, and multilingual education.
Smart Classrooms and Labs
- 7,000 classrooms to be converted into smart learning spaces.
- 175 new computer labs will enhance digital skills among students.
Language and Communication Skills
- 100 language labs named after Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam will teach French, Spanish, German, and English.
Narela Education Hub
- With a massive ₹500 crore budget, this education hub will serve as a model campus with integrated learning facilities and advanced research centers.
Entrepreneurship Programs
- The NEEEV (New Era of Entrepreneurial Ecosystem and Vision) curriculum will now be part of the school program for Classes 8-12, instilling business acumen early.
Teacher Training & Development
- ₹50 crore has been allocated to upskill teachers in the latest pedagogical techniques and digital tools.
Scholarships for Higher Education
- ₹100 crore has been earmarked for scholarships to help underprivileged students pursue college or vocational education.
How Students Can Benefit from the Free Laptop Scheme
Wondering if your child qualifies? Here are the steps and eligibility criteria:
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a Class 10 student enrolled in a Delhi government school.
- Must be among the top 1,200 academic performers.
Application & Selection Process
- Internal Evaluation: Schools assess and shortlist top performers.
- Merit List Publication: Based on board exam results and school performance.
- Laptop Distribution: Handed over through school events or district offices.
What Kind of Laptop?
While specifications are yet to be officially released, the laptops are expected to include:
- Minimum 4GB RAM
- Pre-installed educational software and productivity tools
- Internet connectivity support
Why This Matters for Education Professionals
Teachers, administrators, and curriculum developers also stand to gain from this initiative.
Enhanced Teaching Tools
Smart classrooms and digital labs allow for interactive teaching and real-time assessment.
Curriculum Expansion
With NEP 2020 as the backbone, schools can integrate multidisciplinary and skill-based learning more effectively.
Capacity Building
The initiative encourages teacher training in digital tools and pedagogy, raising overall teaching quality.
Networking and Collaboration
Education hubs and language labs will foster inter-school collaboration, resource sharing, and innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible for the free laptop scheme?
Only top 1,200 Class 10 students from Delhi government schools based on academic merit.
2. How will students receive the laptops?
Through designated schools or district education offices after the merit list is published.
3. Are private school students eligible?
No, currently this scheme is only for Delhi government school students.
4. What if a student already owns a laptop?
They are still eligible if they meet the academic criteria, but can choose to opt-out.
5. When will the laptops be distributed?
Likely after board results are declared, and verification is completed.
