Centre strengthens delivery of post-matric scholarships for SC students

The Centre has strengthened delivery of post-matric scholarships for Scheduled Caste students through online applications, Direct Benefit Transfer and Aadhaar-seeded payments. The Social Justice Ministry said these measures have simplified fund transfers, reduced delays and improved transparency and coordination with states and UTs

New Delhi: The Centre has strengthened mechanisms for transparent and timely delivery of post-matric scholarships to Scheduled Caste (SC) students through online application systems, Direct Benefit Transfer and Aadhaar-seeded payments, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment said on Monday. The Centrally Sponsored Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme for SC students is being implemented through state and Union Territory administrations to support eligible students pursuing post-matriculation and post-secondary education.

Applications are invited through designated state scholarship portals or the National Scholarship Portal. The release of the Centre’s share is linked to the disbursement of the corresponding state or UT share and submission of finally verified beneficiary data on the National Scholarship Portal. “The Direct Benefit Transfer under the Scheme was introduced in 2021-22,” the ministry said, adding that the system has enabled a “simpler and faster flow of funds.” Aadhaar-seeded bank payments have further streamlined the payment process and helped reduce delays in scholarship disbursement, it said.

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The ministry said it reviews the scheme’s implementation regularly through national-level Chintan Shivirs, regional meetings and national conferences. These consultations provide a platform to review operational issues, strengthen coordination and improve delivery of scholarship benefits. The ministry also reviews and revises its schemes in consultation with stakeholders and in accordance with the procedure. The focus is on accessible application systems, reliable payments, effective implementation and transparent delivery of benefits, the ministry added.