AICTE Saksham Scholarship 2024-25: Empowering Specially-Abled Technical Students

The AICTE Saksham Scholarship Scheme is a commendable initiative by the Ministry of Education and the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) aimed at providing financial assistance to specially-abled students. Recognizing that physical disability should not be a barrier to technical education, this scholarship empowers students to pursue diploma or degree courses in AICTE-approved institutions across India.

What is this scheme?

The Saksham Scholarship is specifically designed to support students with disabilities (Divyangjan) who have secured admission in a technical course. It aims to encourage and help them pursue their professional dreams by covering tuition fees and other incidental expenses. The scheme provides support to those who believe in their talent despite their physical limitations.

Who is eligible?

• The candidate must be a student with a disability (minimum 40% disability).
• Must be admitted to the first year of a Degree/Diploma level course or second year via lateral entry in an AICTE-approved institution.
• The total family income from all sources must not exceed INR 8 lakh per annum during the current financial year.
• The student must be an Indian national.
• The candidate should not be a recipient of any other Central or State Government scholarship.

How much money?

A total of INR 50,000 per annum is provided as a lump sum amount for every year of study. This amount is intended for the payment of college fees, purchase of books, equipment, software, laptop, desktop, vehicle, and various fee related to competitive examination applications.

Documents needed

1. Mark sheet of SSC (10th) and HSC (12th)/Diploma exam.
2. Admission letter issued by the Centralized Admission Authority to the degree/diploma course.
3. Valid Disability Certificate issued by a competent Government Authority (UDID card preferred).
4. Annual Family Income Certificate for the preceding financial year in the prescribed format.
5. Student's Bank Passbook or Cancelled Cheque reflecting Account Number, IFSC, and Name.
6. Aadhar Card of the student.
7. Bonafide Certificate issued by the Head of the Institution.
8. Self-declaration / Affidavit regarding the accuracy of information provided.

How to apply (step by step)

1. Visit the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) official website.
2. Click on 'New Registration' if applying for the first time and provide required details.
3. Log in using the generated Application ID and Password.
4. Select the 'AICTE Saksham Scholarship Scheme' from the list of schemes under the AICTE section.
5. Fill in the application form with personal, academic, and bank details correctly.
6. Upload the scanned copies of all required documents in the specified format.
7. Preview the application to ensure all details are correct.
8. Submit the application and take a printout for future reference.

Important dates

Conclusion

The AICTE Saksham Scholarship serves as a vital bridge between financial constraints and technical education for specially-abled students. By providing significant financial aid, the government ensures that talent and ambition are not hindered by physical disabilities. Eligible students are encouraged to apply via the National Scholarship Portal and keep their documents updated for a smooth application process.