The Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Boys is a program initiated by the Indian government to improve the health, education, and overall well-being of teenage boys. Adolescence is a critical phase in a person’s life, marked by important physical, psychological, and emotional changes. Adolescent boys have distinct challenges that require focused attention and support to ensure they grow up healthy and well-adjusted. The aim of this scheme is to provide this support and help them develop into confident, successful adults.
What is Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Boys (RGSEAB)
RGSEAB stands for Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Boys. This scheme was launched in 2014. It has been implemented by the Ministry of Women and Child Development in collaboration with other government agencies. The objective of the scheme is to provide holistic support to adolescent boys from 11 to 18 years of age, especially those from vulnerable communities. to enable them to lead healthy and productive lives.
History of Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Boys Scheme
The Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Boys (RGSEAB) was launched in 2014 by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India. The scheme is a significant initiative aimed at empowering adolescent boys by providing them with opportunities to develop life skills, vocational training, and access to essential services related to health, education, and nutrition.
The scheme was launched as a counterpart to the existing program for adolescent girls which was the Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Girls (RGSEAG). this scheme was launched in 2010. The primary objective of the RGSEAB is to provide a comprehensive package of services to adolescent boys in the age group of 11 to 18 years to help them develop into responsible and productive citizens.
This scheme was initially launched in 147 districts across the country in a phased manner. However, in 2018, the scheme was extended to cover all districts of the country.
Objective of the Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Boys Scheme
- The main objective of the Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Boys (RGSEAB) is to empower adolescent boys in the age group of 11 to 18 years by providing them with a comprehensive package of services.
- Providing life skills education to adolescent boys to help them make informed decisions, build positive relationships, and cope with stress and adversity.
- Providing vocational training to adolescent boys to enhance their skills and employability, leading to increased economic opportunities.
- Providing career counseling to adolescent boys to help them explore different career options and make informed choices about their future.
- Promoting health and nutrition education to adolescent boys to help them develop healthy habits and prevent illnesses.
- Creating awareness among adolescent boys about social issues such as gender equality, human rights, and environmental conservation.
Eligibility Criteria of the Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Boys Scheme
- The scheme is open to adolescent boys in the age group of 11 to 18 years.
- The scheme is open to all adolescent boys.
- The scheme is targeted toward adolescent boys belonging to families below the poverty line and those from marginalized communities.
- There is no educational qualification requirement for the scheme. Adolescent boys who have dropped out of school or have never been to school are also eligible to avail of the services under the scheme.
- The scheme is applicable across all States and Union Territories of India.
Challenges and Limitations of the Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Boys
- Limited awareness: Many people in rural areas and marginalized communities are unaware of the scheme, making it difficult to reach and provide services to the target group of adolescent boys.
- Lack of infrastructure: In some areas, there is a lack of infrastructure like schools and vocational training centres, which can make it challenging to deliver the necessary services under the scheme.
- Implementation challenges: The scheme requires coordination among multiple stakeholders, including government agencies and NGOs, which can present challenges.