Project Aarohan

Project Aarohan launched by the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI):

Objective: Support Educational Aspirations of Toll Plaza Employees' Children

Project Aarohan aims to help children of toll plaza workers pursue education by easing financial and social challenges that may prevent them from continuing studies. These families often face economic hardships due to the nature of their jobs, so this project seeks to enable their kids to access quality education and build better futures.

Launched by National Highway Authority of India (NHAI)

NHAI, which manages and develops national highways, initiated this project to support the welfare of their workforce community — the toll plaza employees — and their families.

Nationwide Reach Covering Toll Plazas on National Highways

The project is designed to impact toll-plaza workers across the entire country, wherever NHAI operates toll plazas. This makes it a large-scale effort reaching a dispersed, often underserved workforce.

Addressing Financial Barriers and Socio-Economic Divides

Many toll workers’ families belong to economically weaker sections. Due to limited income and resources, their children might face difficulties paying for tuition, books, or other education-related expenses. The project aims to reduce these hurdles so kids don’t drop out due to money problems.

Targeting Vulnerable Groups: Girls, First-Generation Learners, and Marginalized Communities

Special focus is given to girls (who often face gender-related educational disadvantages), first-generation learners (children whose parents have not attended school), and students from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, and minority communities — groups historically disadvantaged in education.

Combination of Financial Aid, Mentorship, Skill-Building, and Career Guidance

• Financial Aid: Scholarships to cover educational expenses.

• Mentorship: Experienced mentors guide students through academic and personal challenges.

• Skill-Building Workshops: Training in soft skills, technical skills, or life skills to prepare students for jobs and entrepreneurship.

• Career Guidance: Counseling and advice on higher education options, career paths, and opportunities to help students make informed choices.

This holistic approach ensures not just financial help but comprehensive support for students' growth.

Implementation by SMEC Trust’s Bharat Cares

SMEC Trust’s Bharat Cares is a non-profit organization that will manage the day-to-day execution of the project, including identifying beneficiaries, distributing scholarships, organizing mentorship, and conducting workshops.

Funding and Phase 1 Details

• Fund Allocation: ₹1 Crore is allocated for the initial phase (July 2025 – March 2026).

• Coverage:

  • 500 students from Class 11 to the final year of graduation will each receive ₹12,000 annually to help with education-related costs.

  • Additionally, 50 bright students aiming for postgraduate or higher studies will get ₹50,000 each to support advanced education.

Summary

Project Aarohan is a targeted educational support program addressing the financial, social, and academic challenges faced by children of toll plaza workers. By providing scholarships along with mentorship and skill-building, it aims to create equal opportunities for higher education and future employment.