In North East India, the Indian Army in collaboration with organisations like National Integrity and Educational Development Organisation (NIEDO), SBI, Axis Bank, and PSUs have taken a unique initiative to not just protect the borders but also to nurture young minds. Through its Super 50 Scheme, the Indian Army is bridging educational gaps by providing free coaching to underprivileged students for competitive exams like JEE (Joint Entrance Examination) and NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test). This program, however, is not just about academics—it is a monumental step toward peacebuilding and fostering solidarity in the region.
The Super 50 Scheme is intended for students from families with limited means in states like Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh. The program has helped many worthy students who would not have otherwise had access to such chances realize their aspirations by providing them with excellent coaching, mentorship, and support.
The program goes beyond the usual classroom instruction. Study aids, meals, and lodging are given for free to chosen students. These students will thrive academically and develop in a structured, inspiring atmosphere thanks to the holistic approach.
Lack of educational possibilities and youth unemployment have fuelled insurgency and socio-political turmoil in many regions of North Eastern India. In light of this, the Indian Army has adopted a proactive stance in guiding young people away from extremism by involving them in positive, forward-looking activities.
In Chieswema, Nagaland this centre has given 100% success rate. Numerous students are now living their dreams in IITs,NITs and other reputed institutions in the country. Total 35 students were enrolled in the first batch and 32 in the second. It is witness to Rukusuto Thore achieving remarkable feat of securing second rank in NEET across Nagaland. While in Jairampur , Arunachal Pradesh out of a batch of 30 students 17 have secured a seat in prestigious colleges across India.
The Super 50 Scheme serves as an example of how effective education is at defusing tense situations. The Army is tackling the underlying reasons of disillusionment and offering a platform for constructive change by investing in youth development. The relationship between the military and local populations is further strengthened by this program, which serves as a measure to boost confidence.
For example, the achievements of students in the Super 50 program have become a potent story of optimism in Manipur, a state that has seen protracted violence and instability. These youngsters are demonstrating that knowledge can fill the void of development and advancement by performing very well on competitive tests. These success stories demonstrate the beneficial effects of the Indian Army’s outreach and provide a convincing counter-narrative to insurgency.
In 2024, 13 students from the Red Shield Centre of Wellness and Excellence, also known as the “Manipur Super 50”, successfully cleared NEET on their first attempt. This initiative, which is a collaboration between the Indian Army, the SBI Foundation, and NIEDO, aims to uplift students from economically weaker sections by offering free residential coaching and holistic development. Senior army officials have been actively involved in overseeing this program and have felicitated these achievers in Bishnupur, Manipur.
In Tinsukia, Assam a collaboration between the Indian Army and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), saw 28 out of 35 students successfully clear NEET 2024, achieving an 80% success rate. This success highlights the dedication of the students and the strategic mentorship provided by the Indian Army through NIEDO.
The Super 50 Scheme is not a stand-alone educational initiative; rather, it is a component of the Indian Army’s broader goal to establish harmony and trust while integrating the Northeast with the rest of the country. The Army has historically served in the area in two capacities: as a force for social transformation and as a guardian of the country’s frontiers. The Army is actively contributing to the development of the area, fostering peace, and reducing insurgency through its civic engagement initiatives like this one.
The Super 50 Scheme’s success serves as evidence that empowerment and education can change cultures. It also stands as a beacon of hope for many young minds in the North East. As more children from the It also stands as a beacon of hope for many young minds in the North East succeed academically through this program, they set an example for upcoming generations, fostering progress and positivity throughout the area.
In addition to helping them achieve their goals, the Army is fostering peace, unity, and long-term development in a region that has frequently been left behind by giving them access to higher education. The success stories of the program—students who have surmounted challenges to gain admission to esteemed universities—attest to the transformational potential of education and the Army’s steadfast dedication to nation-building.
This initiative by the Indian Army is a profound reminder that the path to peace in the North East lies not just in securing borders but in empowering its people, especially its youth.
