Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, in a tweet on Tuesday, announced updated eligibility criteria for the Dr. Banikanta Kakati Merit Award (Scooter Distribution) for 2024. The new guidelines aim to encourage academic excellence and support deserving students in the state.

According to the revised criteria, male students scoring above 75% and female students scoring above 60% in their board exams will be eligible for the award. Additionally, students must hold a Permanent Resident Certificate (PRC) of Assam, be enrolled in a degree program within the state, and not have taken any gaps in their education, such as for coaching.

The government has also expanded eligibility to include students who have secured admission to prestigious national institutions outside Assam, including IITs, IIMs, IIITs, NITs, AIIMS, NIDs, and other Central Universities, provided they hold a valid PRC.