In an effort to ensure that students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds have access to higher education in top educational institutions, the West Bengal Government has launched the Aikyashree Scholarship Scheme. This initiative has been a lifeline for many meritorious students from Buddhist, Christian, Jain, Muslim, Parsi, and Sikh communities who would otherwise struggle to afford quality education.
The Aikyashree Scholarship is divided into three categories - Pre-Matric Scholarship, Post Matric Scholarship, and Merit Cum Means Scholarship. Each category has specific eligibility criteria and scholarship amounts. For instance, the Pre-Matric Scholarship is available to students in class I to IX, studying in government-recognized educational institutions with a family income of up to 2 lakh rupees per annum. The scholarship amount for this category ranges from Tk. 1100 to Tk. 11,000 per annum, subject to actual expenditure.
Similarly, the Post Matric Scholarship is available to students pursuing courses from 11th to PhD level in government-recognized educational institutions with an annual family income of up to 2 lakh rupees. The maximum scholarship amount available under this category is Rs.16,500 per annum, subject to actual expenses.
Finally, the Merit Cum Means Scholarship is available to students pursuing professional and technical education in government-recognized educational institutions with an annual family income of up to 2.5 lakh rupees. Students from outside West Bengal can also apply for this scholarship if they meet the eligibility criteria. The maximum scholarship amount available under this category is Rs.33,000 per annum, subject to actual expenditure.
To apply for the scholarship, applicants must meet certain conditions, such as being a permanent resident of West Bengal, securing a minimum of 50% marks in the final examination, receiving a scholarship from an educational institution, and providing a valid and active mobile number and bank account details. The application process is straightforward and can be completed on the official website.
The Aikyashree Scholarship Scheme has been a game-changer for students from economically backward backgrounds, providing them with access to quality education and equal opportunities for a brighter future.
