The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), in partnership with Vertis Infrastructure Trust, has launched ‘Project Aarohan’, a scholarship programme aimed at supporting the children of toll plaza employees in pursuing higher education.
Scope of the scheme
The project will be implemented by SMEC Trust’s Bharat Cares and will run from July 2025 to March 2026. With an allocation of ₹1 crore for its first phase, it is expected to cover 500 students from Class 11 to final-year graduation, each receiving an annual scholarship of ₹12,000 in FY 2025–26, the official statement said.
In addition, 50 students pursuing postgraduate and higher studies will be awarded scholarships of ₹50,000 each. The programme will also include mentorship, skills workshops and career guidance.
Speaking at the launch, NHAI Chairman Santosh Kumar Yadav said, “‘Project Aarohan’ reflects NHAI’s commitment to the people who keep our highways running everyday and to the aspirations of their families. By investing in the education and guidance of their children we are nurturing talent that will power India’s next decade of growth.”
Zafar Khan of Vertis Infrastructure Trust added, “At Vertis, building infrastructure goes hand in hand with building human potential. Through Project Aarohan, we are pleased to partner with NHAI and Bharat Cares by SMEC Trust to help shape the future of the country. By helping create mentorship pathways for students that turn promise into performance, the benefits compound across families and local economies, creating a stronger Bharat.”
Applications will be accepted through an online portal, with students required to provide academic records, income proof, caste certificates and identification documents.
A systematic selection process will be followed to ensure transparency, with scope for renewal of scholarships to support students in the long term.
The project will cover toll plaza personnel deployed across the national highway network.
