In our country, education is the right of every child. This is not just a slogan, but a goal that the government and society are working together to achieve. But this path can be a little difficult for some children, especially those who are facing some kind of disability. Whether it is physical, visual impairment, hearing impairment or any other challenge, these children have as much talent and enthusiasm as anyone else. All they need is the right opportunity and support. That is why the government and many non-governmental organizations arrange scholarships for students with disabilities so that they can complete their studies and make their dreams come true. In this article, we will talk about some such scholarships, which are specifically for higher education.

Post-Matric Scholarship for SC Students: An Initiative to Make Education Easier

Importance of Scholarship

Education, especially higher education, can be quite expensive these days. Books, fees, hostels, and if a child goes to study in a big city, then the cost of living there – all these can become a huge burden. This burden can be even heavier for students with disabilities, as they often need additional resources, such as wheelchairs, special software, or assistive devices. Scholarships help reduce this burden. They not only provide financial support, but also boost the confidence of students, as they feel that society is with them.

Some Major Scholarships

Let us now know about some such scholarships which help disabled students in higher education. These scholarships are given by the government and some private institutions.

1. National Disability Empowerment Scholarship (NHFDC)

The National Handicapped Finance and Development Corporation (NHFDC) scholarship is for students who wish to pursue graduation, post-graduation, or professional courses such as engineering, medical, law, or management. Every year 2500 students are given assistance under this scholarship.

• What do you get?
  • This scholarship covers tuition fees, book expenses, and monthly allowance. If the student lives in a hostel, he can also get living expenses.
• Who can apply?
  • Any student with 40% or more disability and whose family income is less than Rs 3 lakh per annum can apply for this scholarship.
• How to apply?
  • One has to go to the NHFDC website and fill the online form. Necessary documents like disability certificate, income proof, and mark sheet have to be submitted.

This scholarship is very helpful for those students who are thinking of quitting their studies due to financial constraints.

2. Post-Matric Scholarship for Students with Disability

The aim of this scholarship of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is to provide financial assistance to disabled students studying from class 11th to post-graduation.

• What do you get?
  • This includes a separate amount for tuition fees, maintenance allowance, and books. If the student needs any special equipment, such as a Braille reader or hearing aid, help can also be provided for that.
• Who can apply?
  • Students with 40% or more disability and whose family income is less than Rs 2.5 lakh per annum.
• How to apply?
  • One has to apply online by visiting the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). Documents like Aadhar card, disability certificate, and school/college mark sheet are required.

This scholarship is specifically for students who want to go to college after completing their schooling.

3. Saksham Scholarship

This scholarship is for students who want to pursue professional courses such as engineering, medicine, or management. It is awarded by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE).

• What do you get? :- Up to Rs 50,000 assistance is provided every year for tuition fees and other expenses.
• Who can apply? :- Students with 40% or more disability, studying in an institution recognized by AICTE.
• How to apply? :- Application has to be made through AICTE website or National Scholarship Portal.

This scholarship is special for those students who want to make a career in the technical field.

4. Special provisions in National Talent Search Exam (NTSE)

Although NTSE is not specifically for disabled students, it provides some special relaxations for students with disabilities. If a student performs well in class 10 and qualifies NTSE, he can get scholarship till graduation and post-graduation.

• What do you get?
  • Rs 1250 per month (for 11th and 12th) and Rs 2000 (for Graduation and Post-Graduation).
• Who can apply?
  • Disabled students studying in class 10th who pass the NTSE exam.
• How to apply?
  • One has to register for NTSE by visiting the NCERT website.

This is a good opportunity for those students who are good in studies and want to get scholarship through their hard work.

5. Scholarships From Private Institutions

Many private institutions and NGOs also offer scholarships for students with disabilities. For example, institutions like Narayan Seva Sansthan and Smile Foundation fund certain courses. Apart from this, some big corporate houses, such as Tata and Reliance, also offer scholarships under their CSR programs. For information on these scholarships, you have to check the institution’s website or contact their office.

Tips for applying for scholarships

• Apply on time: Every scholarship has its own deadline. Fill the form on time so that you don’t miss the opportunity.
• Keep documents complete: Always keep documents like disability certificate, income proof, mark sheets, and Aadhaar card ready.
• Use online portals: For most scholarships, it is easy and secure to apply on the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).
• Provide correct information: Do not fill any wrong information in the form as it may lead to rejection of your application.
• Talk to a counselor: If you don’t understand something, seek help from your school or college counselor.

Challenges and Solutions

Many times disabled students are not able to get the right information about scholarships. Students living in villages or small towns face problems due to lack of internet or lack of awareness. For this, the government has taken many steps, such as organizing awareness camps in schools and colleges and starting helpline numbers. If you need more information about scholarships, you can contact the helpline of NHFDC or the Ministry of Social Justice.

An Inspiring Story

Let’s listen to a small story. Rita, who hails from a small village in Uttar Pradesh, was unable to walk on one leg due to polio in childhood. But seeing her interest in studies, her school teacher told her about the NHFDC scholarship. Rita applied, and with the help of the scholarship she completed her B.Tech. Today she works in a software company and is helping her family. There are many stories like Rita’s, which tell us that with the right opportunity and hard work, anyone can fulfill their dreams.

At The End

Disability is not a weakness. It is just a condition due to which one has to live life a little differently. It is the responsibility of the government and society to ensure that every child gets equal opportunities. Scholarships are a big step in this direction. If you or any student around you wants to study with a disability, then definitely tell him about these scholarships. A little information and hard work can change someone’s life.