In a remarkable feat of academic perseverance, Harpreet Kaur, the daughter of a daily wage labourer from Ludhiana, has secured admission to the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati. However, her family now faces the daunting challenge of raising the required admission fee of ₹50,000 by the June 16 deadline.
Struggle for Higher Education Amidst Financial Constraints
Information was available with The Chenab Times detailing Harpreet Kaur’s successful selection for the B.Sc (Hons) in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence programme at IIT Guwahati. This achievement marks the culmination of years of hard work and dedication, often pursued against a backdrop of significant financial hardship. Her father earns a meager ₹10,000 per month through daily wage labour, and the family of six struggles to meet basic living expenses.
Harpreet has consistently demonstrated exceptional academic prowess. She achieved 94 per cent in her Class X examinations in 2023 and scored over 90 per cent in Class XII in 2025. Both her secondary and higher secondary education were completed at the Government Senior Secondary Residential Meritorious School, an institution known for supporting academically bright students from economically weaker sections.
Following her schooling, Harpreet participated in the TechBee selection process, which is designed to identify and nurture talent for specialized science and technology programmes. This rigorous selection procedure involved written examinations, interviews, and group discussions, all of which she successfully navigated, ultimately earning her a coveted spot at IIT Guwahati.
A Dream Hangs in the Balance
The immediate hurdle for Harpreet is the deposit of ₹50,000, an amount that is currently beyond the reach of her family. Her father, the sole breadwinner, supports his wife and three younger siblings, all of whom are also reportedly academically inclined. The family’s monthly income barely covers their essential needs, making the admission fee a seemingly insurmountable obstacle.
Harpreet expressed her profound gratitude for the opportunity and her determination to succeed. “This admission can change my future and help me support my family,” she stated, appealing to benevolent individuals and organizations for assistance. She fears losing this life-altering chance due to the financial barrier.
Educationists and community members have lauded Harpreet’s achievement as a source of pride for Ludhiana and have urged philanthropists, social organizations, and well-wishers to extend their support. They highlighted her academic excellence as a testament to her potential and the importance of ensuring that financial constraints do not impede such promising futures.
The TechBee programme at IIT Guwahati is an initiative aimed at providing high-quality education in emerging fields like Data Science and Artificial Intelligence to deserving students. Successful completion of this programme opens up significant career opportunities in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
Harpreet’s story underscores the ongoing challenge faced by many talented students from underprivileged backgrounds in accessing higher education. While government initiatives and institutional scholarships aim to bridge this gap, the immediate financial requirements for admission often present a critical juncture. The family’s plea for help highlights the role of community support in enabling such aspirations.
The deadline of June 16 looms large, placing immense pressure on Harpreet and her family. Their hope now rests on the generosity of others who can help them bridge the financial gap and ensure that Harpreet Kaur can embark on her educational journey at IIT Guwahati.
The Chenab Times News Desk