The initiative will provide free computing hardware to eligible undergraduate and diploma students in government and government-aided institutions.
The Tamil Nadu government on Saturday began the rollout of the Vetri Laptop Scheme, earmarking Rs 2,000 crore for the initiative. According to reports from Deccan Chronicle and The New Indian Express, the programme aims to provide free laptops to students in government and government-aided colleges.
The scheme covers first- and second-year undergraduate and diploma students across various streams. Eligible courses include engineering, medicine, arts and science, agriculture, law, polytechnic, ITI, veterinary science, and fisheries. Third- and fourth-year professional course students who were not included in the 2025-26 distribution will also be covered.
Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay will lead a high-level monitoring committee to oversee the implementation. The Tamil Nadu Electronics Corporation (ELCOT) has received administrative approval to procure the devices, with engineering students set to receive laptops with Intel Core i5 processors or equivalent specifications.
The initiative was originally announced in the 2026-27 Budget to help bridge the digital divide in higher education. State officials stated that the apex panel will soon finalise procurement frameworks, distribution schedules, and operational guidelines.
