Patna, Dec 25: The Bihar government has announced the opening of two new Minority Residential Schools in Kishanganj and Darbhanga, offering free education along with hostel facilities to students from minority communities.
Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has approved the initiative under the state’s minority welfare programme. Officials said the move aims to support students from economically weaker backgrounds and boost enrolment at the secondary and senior secondary levels.
The admission process for the residential schools will begin this month, with applications open until December 30. The schools will admit students for the 2025–26 academic session in the Arts and Science streams.
Admissions will be limited to Classes 9 and 11. According to the Minority Welfare Department, students belonging to Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Buddhist, Jain and Parsi communities will be eligible. In addition to free tuition, students will be provided with free accommodation and basic facilities.
Officials said the residential school model is designed to ensure a safe environment and promote overall development, including health, discipline and academic support.
Applications can be submitted both online and offline to ensure that students from remote areas are not excluded due to lack of internet access.
Seat allocation has been structured to promote inclusion. Seventy-five per cent of seats in each school will be reserved for students from rural areas.
Of the total seats, 50 per cent will be reserved for girls. Existing reservation rules applicable to Bihar government educational institutions will also apply.
Age criteria have been clearly defined. Applicants for Class 9 should not be more than 16 years old, while those seeking admission to Class 11 should be 18 years or below.
Preference will be given to students currently studying in Classes 9 and 11 in recognised schools. Officials said the two schools are part of a broader effort to strengthen minority education infrastructure in the state.
By combining free education with residential facilities, the government aims to reduce dropout rates and encourage students to continue their studies beyond the primary level.
The Kishanganj and Darbhanga schools are expected to cater to students from nearby districts. The department added that further expansion may be considered depending on response and demand.
With the application deadline set for December 30, officials have urged eligible students and parents to apply early. Detailed guidelines and application forms are available through the Minority Welfare Department.
