Members of the Parents’ Association of Andhra Pradesh (PAAP) lauded the state government’s announcement to release ₹1,200 crore for student scholarships and fee refunds.
“I am happy to inform you that ₹ 1,200 crore is being released today for payment of fees and scholarship through the latest Budget Release Orders (BRO), providing immediate support to thousands of students across AP,” Education Minister Nara Lokesh said on X.
“To every student and parent: no one will face hurdles in education. Clearing all fees and ensuring timely assistance for future is our clear commitment. Study with confidence – AP government stands by you,” he added.
The parents’ body members expressed their gratitude for the release of ₹1,200 crore for the academic year 2024-25. They said the announcement will provide relief to lakhs of students.
They also demanded that the state government release ₹7,000 crore in outstanding fees for the Vidya Deevena (Tuition Fee Reimbursement) and Vasathi Deevena (Tuition Fee Maintenance) schemes.
“Considering the future of 12 lakh students, the government should immediately release the arrears of RTF and MTF for the last three academic years. Because of this delay, private colleges are illegally withholding the original certificates of students,” said PAAP President S. Narahari.
“These private colleges are putting a burden on parents by charging additional fees beyond what has been set by the AP Higher Education Regulatory and Monitoring Commission (APHERMC). They are causing mental stress to students by denying them hall tickets before exams,” he said.
PAAP members demanded a strict and time-bound timetable for releasing the remaining ₹7,000 crore in dues. They urged the immediate formation of a commission of inquiry or a special task force to take action against colleges that are withholding certificates due to pending fees.
Published – 11 Feb 2026 20:50 IST