Lucknow: In a historic step towards empowering Uttar Pradesh’s brightest minds, the Government of Uttar Pradesh signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) on Tuesday to introduce the “Chevening–Atal Bihari Vajpayee Uttar Pradesh State Government Scholarship Scheme.”
Under this initiative, five meritorious students from the state will get the opportunity every year to pursue fully-funded master’s degrees at some of the most prestigious universities in the UK, including the Universities of Oxford, Cambridge, Edinburgh, and the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).
The MoU was signed in Lucknow by British High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron in the presence of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, marking a landmark collaboration that combines global education opportunities with the state’s mission to nurture leadership and excellence.
A Platform for Future Global Leaders
Speaking at the signing ceremony, CM Yogi Adityanath called the scheme a transformative platform to elevate Uttar Pradesh’s education system and create opportunities for youth to take on global leadership roles.
This scholarship is not just about education; it is about building leaders who can proudly represent Uttar Pradesh and India on the world stage. I urge our students to seize this golden opportunity and bring honor to our state and our nation,” he said.
The Chief Minister emphasized that this scheme aligns with India’s vision of a knowledge-driven future, providing deserving students with exposure to cutting-edge research, innovative ideas, and international networks.
Scholarship Details and Funding
The programme, beginning with the 2025–26 academic session, will run for three years initially, with a strong possibility of extension from 2028–29 onwards.
The scholarship will comprehensively cover:
- Tuition, examination, and research fees
- Living expenses and allowances
- Airfare to and from the UK
The total expenditure per student is estimated between £38,048 and £42,076 (₹45–48 lakh). Of this, the UP government will contribute approximately £19,800 (₹23 lakh) per student, while the remaining costs will be borne by the FCDO.
UP Higher Education Minister Yogendra Upadhyay has confirmed that the scheme’s funding will be shared equally between the two governments and that the programme will be reviewed for renewal after its initial three-year term.
The state has already allocated ₹2 crore for the current financial year to kick-start the initiative.
Strengthening India–UK Education Ties
British High Commissioner Lindy Cameron hailed the scheme as a symbol of deepening India–UK partnerships, especially in education and innovation. She stated that the initiative will enable talented Indian students to receive world-class training and return to India as change-makers in their respective fields.
This MoU comes shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the UK, where he signed a historic Trade Agreement and Vision 35, laying a strong foundation for educational exchange, global skill development, and future business collaborations.
Why This Scholarship is a Game-Changer for UP Students
For students from Uttar Pradesh, this is a life-changing opportunity. The Chevening–Atal Bihari Vajpayee Scholarship is designed to:
- Empower students from diverse backgrounds by offering access to elite education and resources.
- Build confidence and leadership skills among youth who will be trained at globally recognized institutions.
- Bring global exposure home by encouraging scholars to return and contribute to India’s growth story.
- Enhance Uttar Pradesh’s reputation as an education hub, inspiring more students to aim for international academic success.
By investing in its brightest talent, Uttar Pradesh is sending a strong message that merit, innovation, and ambition will be supported at every level.
This initiative reflects a visionary step in preparing future policymakers, scientists, entrepreneurs, and leaders who will drive both the state and the country forward.
A Visionary Tribute to Atal Bihari Vajpayee
The scholarship carries the name of Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee, a legendary statesman and former Prime Minister of India, known for his commitment to education, inclusivity, and progress.
By honoring his legacy, this programme symbolizes Uttar Pradesh’s commitment to creating global citizens who remain rooted in Indian values.
This scheme is more than financial aid—it is a doorway to global excellence, a bridge between India and the world, and a testament to Uttar Pradesh’s rising status in education and research.
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