The Tamil Nadu government is advancing its flagship free laptop distribution scheme, reaffirming its commitment to improving digital access for college students across the state. With an initial target of 10 lakh laptops in the first phase and a plan to cover 20 lakh students over two years, this initiative represents one of India’s largest state-run digital inclusion programmes.
Distribution Timeline and Implementation
According to reports, laptop distribution is expected to begin later this year or by early 2026, depending on the completion of procurement and logistics. While The Hindu Business Line suggests an earlier rollout, DT Next reports that large-scale deployment is more likely between February and March 2026.
The scheme is backed by a ₹2,000 crore budget allocation, with the Electronics Corporation of Tamil Nadu (ELCOT) overseeing procurement, vendor management, and quality testing.
Upgraded Laptop Specifications
This new phase marks a major technological leap compared to previous rounds.
Each laptop will include:
- Intel Core i3 processor (or AMD Ryzen 3 variant)
- 8GB RAM
- 256GB SSD storage
- 15-inch display
- Pre-installed educational software
At an estimated cost of ₹21,000 per unit, the laptops are designed to offer higher performance for students pursuing technical, science, and humanities courses.
Vendors and Quality Control
Acer, Dell, and HP have been finalised as the original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). ELCOT has completed technical evaluations, and production is set to begin soon.
Each batch of laptops will undergo random quality checks by a panel comprising representatives from Anna University, IIT Madras, and the National Informatics Centre (NIC) to ensure consistent performance and durability.
Beneficiary Selection and Monitoring System
Principals of government and aided colleges have been instructed to identify eligible students and submit data by August 2025. To ensure transparency, the state is deploying an ERP-based tracking system that will monitor supply chains, vendor performance, and real-time inventory.
Continuing a Legacy of Digital Empowerment
Launched in 2011, Tamil Nadu’s free laptop scheme has already distributed over 52 lakh laptops at a total cost exceeding ₹7,000 crore. The renewed phase, featuring upgraded specifications and digital monitoring, reinforces the state’s long-term goal of empowering students through technology and equipping them for a digital-first economy.
Once final quality checks are complete, the government will announce the official distribution schedule—marking the next step in Tamil Nadu’s decade-long commitment to digital inclusion in education.
