I, like many of my peers, worked incredibly hard to earn the necessary marks for the Assam government's "Dr. Bani Kanta Kakati merit award" under Pragyan Bharati Scheme. With great pride, we crossed that threshold, hopeful of the reward that acknowledged our dedication. But this year, we find ourselves left out in cold. Our offense? Seeking better opportunities for education, venturing outside Assam or attending extra coaching classes.

Last year, students such as us, who went the extra mile for our education, were acknowledged and rewarded with the same. The exclusion is all the more painful since it targets the very same individuals striving for a quality education. It feels like a punishment for our ambition, a sticking point that we are unable to overcome.

The scholarship scheme by the Assam government promises to award scooter to meritorious students. However, this year's change in eligibility criteria—excluding students who have gone out of state for higher studies or joined coaching classes—deprives hardworking students of the assistance they deserve.

Inclusion is the only path forward and the Assam government must recognize that students regardless of location or coaching enrollment are equally deserving, and revise their scholarship criteria. Let education and hard-work be the sole determining factors of this thoughtful initiative.

In the spirit of fairness, we urge the Assam government to reconsider their decision and amend the scholarship scheme. Stand with us and sign this petition to fight against this injustice. Help us take our message to those in power and secure an equal opportunity for all students.