LG Kavinder Gupta Launches REWA 2.0 Scheme to Support Ladakh’s UPSC Aspirants

Leh, October 18:Lieutenant Governor Kavinder Gupta on Saturday launched the REWA 2.0 Financial Assistance Scheme, a flagship initiative aimed at empowering 80 meritorious yet economically disadvantaged UPSC aspirants from Leh and Kargil by providing financial support for quality coaching at reputed institutions across the country.

Speaking after the launch at the LG Secretariat, Leh, in the presence of Administrative Secretary, Higher Education, Smt. Bhanu Prabha, and other senior officials, the Lt Governor said the scheme marks a major step towards youth empowerment and equitable opportunity in the Union Territory.

He said the initiative reflects the Administration’s commitment to ensuring that financial hardship does not obstruct the aspirations of talented youth from Ladakh who wish to serve the nation through the civil services. “REWA 2.0 will provide a level playing field to deserving candidates by covering coaching and accommodation expenses of ₹1.18 lakh each for six months,” he added.

Stressing the need to make UPSC coaching more accessible to economically weaker students, Shri Gupta said the scheme will help attract and support talented candidates from Ladakh to crack the prestigious examination and secure positions in top government services. He urged the youth to seize this opportunity and pursue their goals with determination and confidence.

Commending the Department of Higher Education for conceptualising and implementing the scheme, the Lt Governor described it as a visionary initiative aligned with the Administration’s broader focus on empowerment, merit, and equal opportunity. He said REWA 2.0 not only removes financial barriers but also promotes a culture of academic excellence and aspiration among Ladakhi youth.

Earlier, Commissioner Secretary, Higher Education, Smt. Bhanu Prabha, briefed that under REWA 2.0, ₹1.18 lakh—covering both coaching fees and accommodation—will be provided to 40 candidates each from Leh and Kargil, including one seat per district reserved for persons with disabilities, for a period of six months.

She added that candidates aged between 21 and 36 years can choose any coaching institute of their preference and are required to appear in the upcoming UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination.

Smt. Bhanu Prabha urged Ladakh’s youth to take full advantage of the opportunity and prepare with dedication, noting that the scheme is designed to empower deserving candidates to fulfil their dreams and serve the nation through the civil services.