New Delhi, Sept. 21 -- The government on Monday dismissed claims circulating on social media that the Centre has invited applications from students for free laptops under the 'National Student Laptop Scheme 2026' as 'fake.'

The Press Information Bureau (PIB), the government's official fact-checking agency, clarified that the 'government of India has neither announced any scheme by this name nor invited applications from students for free laptops.'

"Beware! Fraudsters often use attractive offers such as free laptops, scholarships, or cash benefits to lure people into sharing personal, financial, or banking information," the PIB said in a post on X.

The clarification came after a WhatsApp message circulated widely on social media, allegi...