The Saksham Scholarship Scheme is an initiative by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) to support differently-abled students pursuing higher education.
It provides financial aid to cover tuition fees and educational materials, helping students focus on academics without financial burdens.
The Saksham Scholarship Scheme is a key initiative funded by the central government, designed to support differently-abled students in their pursuit of higher education. The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) manages the program to target students with special needs, providing them with financial aid to overcome barriers to accessing quality education.
Key to this initiative is empowering physically challenged students by easing the financial burdens associated with pursuing higher degrees. Known also as the Saksham Scholarship for Specially Abled Students, it offers an annual stipend of Rs 50000 to eligible participants attending AICTE-accredited institutions. This fund can be used to cover college fees and the cost of educational materials, ensuring that students can focus on their studies without financial stress.
Eligibility for the scholarship is reserved for students with a disability of 40% or more, aiming to level the playing field for those facing significant challenges. The Scheme outlines a specific duration for the disbursal of funds, limiting support to a maximum of four years for degree-seeking students and three years for those enrolled in diploma programs.
Furthermore, it stipulates that only students from families with an annual income below Rs 800000 are qualified to apply. To facilitate the application process, the Scheme is accessible through the National Scholarship Portal, inviting eligible students to take advantage of this opportunity to further their education without the burden of financial constraints.
Scholarship Overview
| Nodal Agency | All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Saksham Scholarship for PH Category Students |
| Amount | Up to ₹50,000 per year |
| Duration | Max 4 years for Degree courses, 3 years for Diploma courses |
| Beneficiaries | Physically Challenged Students |
| Official Website | scholarships.gov.in |
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Saksham Scholarship, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Disability Requirement: Applicants must have a disability of 40% or more.
- Family Income: Annual family income should not exceed ₹8,00,000.
- Academic Requirement:
- Must be enrolled in the first year or second-year lateral entry of a degree or diploma program.
- The institution must be AICTE-approved.
- No Other Scholarship: Candidates cannot simultaneously hold another scholarship from Central/State Government or AICTE-approved schemes.
Benefits of the Scheme
- Annual Scholarship Amount: ₹50,000 (covers college fees, books, and other educational expenses).
- Duration:
- Degree Programs: Up to 4 years.
- Diploma Programs: Up to 3 years.
Documents Required
Applicants need the following documents for submission:
- Class 10th Certificate and Grade Report.
- Class 12th Certificate (for degree courses) and Grade Report.
- ITI Certificate (for lateral entry to diploma) with Grade Report.
- Diploma Certificate (for lateral entry to degree) with Grade Report.
- Caste Certificate (if applicable).
- Aadhar Card (UIDAI issued).
- Disability Certificate.
- Student Enrollment/Verification Document (Appendix-I).
- Family Income Certificate (Appendix-II).
- Renewal Certificate (Appendix-III) for subsequent years.
How to Apply for Saksham Scholarship
Follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to scholarships.gov.in.
- New Registration:
- Select “New Registration.”
- Provide basic details such as Name, Date of Birth, Gender, Category, and Aadhaar details.
- Choose your scholarship type (Pre-Matric/Post-Matric).
- Enter your Banking IFSC Code and Account Details.
- Complete the Application:
- Log in with the credentials provided after registration.
- Select the Saksham Scholarship Program.
- Fill in all required details and upload the necessary documents.
- Submit the Form:
- Once all details are verified, submit the application.
- The application will be reviewed by your institution and the state’s Technical Education Department.
- Renewal:
- The scholarship must be renewed annually. Submit a renewal form and required documents each year.
Selection Process
After verification, a list of approved candidates will be published on the AICTE portal. Eligible students must renew their application annually to continue receiving benefits.
For more details, visit the official website: scholarships.gov.in.