Empowering Girls Through Safe and Affordable Accommodation: How PM-AJAY is Supporting Access to Higher Education in Manipur

Executive Summary The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has established a 100-bedded SC Girls Hostel at Dhanamanjuri University, Manipur, under the Pradhan Mantri Anusuchit Jaati Abhyuday Yojana (PM-AJAY). Constructed during 2022-23 at a cost of Rs 3.50 Crores, the facility aims to provide safe and affordable residential support to girl students from remote and rural areas. As of May 29, 2026, the hostel is operational with 76 residents, effectively reducing barriers to higher education.

Key Points / Main Content

Project Specifications and Funding

• Capacity: A 100-bedded hostel dedicated to Scheduled Caste (SC) girl students.
• Location: Situated at Dhanamanjuri University, Imphal West, Manipur.
• Financials: Constructed at a total cost of Rs 3.50 Crores.
• Framework: Implemented under the "Hostel Component" of the PM-AJAY scheme.

Strategic Objectives

• Accessibility: Targets students from far-flung, remote, and rural areas of Manipur to ensure they can access reputed higher education institutions.
• Safety and Affordability: Provides a secure and low-cost alternative to private lodging and difficult daily commutes.
• Inclusivity: While focused on SC students, the facility is used by students from different communities to foster academic growth.

Operational Impact

• Timeline: The infrastructure was completed during the 2022-23 period.
• Utilization: As of May 29, 2026, the facility reported 76 active residents.
• Outcomes: The hostel serves as a support system that allows girls to focus on academic pursuits by eliminating the financial and physical strain of travel.

Impact Analysis

SC Girl Students and Residents from Remote Areas Impact Students gain access to a secure, comfortable, and affordable living environment close to their place of study. This mitigates the financial burden of private accommodation and the logistical challenges of commuting from distant districts. Action Required Eligible students should utilize the facility to maintain consistent attendance and focus on their higher education and academic growth.

Dhanamanjuri University / Educational Authorities Impact The university’s infrastructure is strengthened, allowing it to attract and retain talent from all districts of Manipur by offering necessary residential support. Action Required Management must ensure the continued maintenance of the hostel and oversee the effective implementation of the PM-AJAY component guidelines to support the beneficiary demographic.

Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment Impact The Ministry successfully demonstrates the efficacy of PM-AJAY in bridging the educational gap for marginalized communities through targeted infrastructure. Action Required Continued monitoring of the facility's occupancy and impact metrics to ensure the long-term sustainability of the hostel component in Manipur.