Recently, a multi-crore scam has come to light involving the post-matric scholarship scheme for Scheduled Castes (SC) in Punjab. This news comes at a time when the Central government is strategising to amalgamate all current scholarship schemes into a single national scholarship scheme.
Details on the Post Matric Scholarship for SCs
Launched in 2006, the Post Matric Scholarship for SCs is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme implemented via the State government and Union Territory administration. The principal aim of the Scheme is to provide financial assistance to Scheduled Caste students pursuing education at post matriculation or post-secondary stages, enabling them to continue their studies. However, the scholarship is restricted to studies within India and is awarded to students whose guardians earn less than Rs. 2,50,000 per annum.
The Proposed Single National Scholarship Scheme
In an attempt to streamline the scholarship process, the Central government is deliberating establishing a unified national scholarship scheme named PM Young Achievers Scholarship Award Scheme for Vibrant India (PM-YASASVI). This new scheme will incorporate all existing scholarship programs.
Who Benefits?
The proposed national scholarship targets meritorious students from a wide spectrum of social and economical classes including Other Backward Class (OBC), SC, Denotified, Nomadic and semi-Nomadic Tribe (DNT) and Economically Backward Caste (EBC).
Implementing The National Scholarship Scheme
Responsibility for the implementation of this National Scholarship Scheme lies with the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment which will oversee a merit test as part of the process.
Benefits of the National Scholarship Scheme
The proposed national scheme promises several benefits, including broader reach of scholarship information, emphasis on maintaining uniform curriculum and teaching standards throughout the country, and improvement in the quality and implementation of scholarship schemes.
Potential Issues with The New Scheme
Despite its potential benefits, certain issues have been identified with the new scheme. If a student misses the scholarship application deadline, there will be no opportunity to apply for other scholarships. Furthermore, the addition of a national-level scholarship exam may burden students already appearing for board and entrance examinations. The potential removal of existing pre-matric and post-matric scholarship schemes also raises concerns about potential negative impacts on students’ education.
A Thoughtful Way Forward
The success of PM-YASASVI hinges on its careful and correct implementation. Otherwise, it could become more of an obstacle than a support for Indian students. As such, it would be advantageous for government officials to draw upon the expertise of current scholarship provider platforms. These entities have firsthand experience and knowledge on what works best for supporting students, which would be invaluable in developing a comprehensive and effective national scholarship scheme.
