AICTE Saksham Scholarship: Comprehensive Guide for Specially-Abled Technical Students

The AICTE Saksham Scholarship Scheme is a flagship initiative by the Ministry of Education, implemented by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). Specifically designed to empower specially-abled students, this scheme aims to reduce the financial burden on families and encourage students with disabilities to pursue professional technical education in fields like Engineering, Pharmacy, and Architecture.

What is this scheme?

The Saksham Scholarship is an institutional support mechanism providing financial aid to students with disabilities (40% or more) who have secured admission into the first year or second year (through lateral entry) of a degree or diploma program in an AICTE-approved institution. The scheme is aimed at fostering inclusive growth in the technical education sector.

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 of a Degree/Diploma course via lateral entry in any AICTE approved institution.
• Family income from all sources should not exceed ₹8 Lakh per annum during the current financial year.
• The applicant must not be a recipient of any other Government scholarship (Central/State).
• Candidate must be an Indian Citizen.

How much money?

A fixed amount of ₹50,000 per annum is provided for every year of study. This sum is treated as a consolidated grant for payment of college fees, purchase of computers, stationeries, books, equipment, and software, or towards tuition and hostel fees. No separate maintenance allowance is paid.

Documents needed

1. Valid Disability Certificate issued by a competent government medical authority.
2. Previous year marksheet (SSC/HSC/Diploma as applicable).
3. Income Certificate for the current financial year issued by an officer not below the rank of Tehsildar.
4. Admission letter issued by the Directorate of Technical Education or Admission Authority.
5. Tuition fee receipt paid for the current academic year.
6. Bank Passbook seeded with Aadhaar showing Account Number and IFSC code.
7. Aadhaar Card copy.
8. Caste Certificate (if applicable for SC/ST/OBC).

How to apply (step by step)

1. Navigate to the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) official website.
2. Register as a new user to generate your Application ID and Password.
3. Login using the credentials and select the AICTE Saksham Scholarship under the 'UGC/AICTE Schemes' section.
4. Fill in the personal details, academic details, and bank account information accurately.
5. Upload the scanned copies of required documents in the prescribed format.
6. Submit the application form and keep a printout of the application for future reference.
7. The application will be verified online by the respective Institute (Level 1) and by the Department (Level 2).

Important dates

Conclusion

The AICTE Saksham Scholarship stands as a beacon of hope for specially-abled students aspiring to become technical professionals. By providing significant financial assistance, it ensures that physical or financial barriers do not hinder a student's potential. Eligible students are encouraged to keep their documentation ready and apply within the stipulated timelines on the NSP portal.