Launched in 1996, the Scholarships to Students with Disabilities Scheme is a fully state-sponsored initiative by the Department of Social Security and Women & Child Development, Government of Punjab. This scheme supports children with 40% and above disability to continue their education in schools, colleges, and training institutions by offering monthly financial aid. The objective is to empower them through education and help them become independent, contributing members of society.
Scheme Key Highlights (Short Summary)
• State: Punjab
• Target Group: Students with 40% and above disability
• Applicable Classes: 1st standard onwards (school to higher education)
• Sponsoring Body: Department of Social Security and Women & Child Development, Punjab
• Income Limit: ₹5,000/month (₹60,000/year)
• Application Mode: Offline (through school/institution head)
Benefits
| Education Level | Scholarship Amount (per month) |
|---|---|
| Classes 1st to 8th | ₹200 |
| Classes 9th onwards & training | ₹300 |
Note: The scholarship is transferred directly to the student’s bank account through DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer).
Eligibility Criteria
• Applicant must be a resident of Punjab
• Must have a valid Disability Certificate/UDID showing 40% or more disability (as per RPwD Act 2016)
• Family income should not exceed ₹5,000 per month (₹60,000 per year)
• Student must have secured at least 40% marks in the previous annual examination
• Applicable to students from Class 1 onwards, including technical and professional training
Exclusions
• Students with less than 40% disability are not eligible
• Applicants whose family income exceeds ₹60,000/year are excluded
• Students who did not pass the previous annual exam with at least 40% marks
Application Process (Offline)
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The student must collect the application form from the school or district office
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Fill in the application form and attach required documents
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Submit it to the Head of School/College/Institution
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The head will verify and forward the application to the District Social Security Officer (DSSO)
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Upon approval, the scholarship will be disbursed online to the student’s bank account
Documents Required
• Disability Certificate or UDID (showing 40% or more disability)
• Income Certificate (less than ₹60,000/year from competent authority)
• Bank Passbook Copy or bank account details of the student
• Previous mark sheet (to validate 40% academic performance)
• Domicile certificate (if required by DSSO)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the “Scholarships to Students with Disabilities Scheme”?
The scheme “Scholarships to Students with Disabilities Scheme” was started by the Department of Social Security and Women & Child Development, Government of Punjab in the year 1996. The objective of the scheme is to assist students with disabilities to secure education, academic, technical, or professional training to enable them to earn a living and to become useful members of society. - Is this scheme centrally sponsored or state-sponsored?
The scheme is fully state-sponsored by the Government of Punjab. - What is the scholarship amount provided under this scheme for students in classes 1st to 8th?
Under this scheme, students in classes 1st to 8th are eligible for a scholarship of ₹200 per month per student with a disability. - How much scholarship is awarded to students with disabilities in 9th class onwards or during advanced education and training?
Students with disabilities in 9th class onwards or those pursuing advanced education and training are eligible for a higher scholarship amount of ₹300 per month per student. - How is the scholarship disbursed to the students under this scheme?
The Directorate responsible for the scheme disburses the scholarship amount directly into the bank account of the eligible student. - Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship under this scheme?
To be eligible for the scholarship, students must be residents of Punjab and possess a disability certificate indicating a disability of 40% or above. The disability should fall within the categories specified in the schedule of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act 2016. - Is there a specific income limit for the family or guardians of the student to qualify for the scholarship?
Yes, the monthly income of the family or guardians of the student should not exceed ₹5,000 to be eligible for the scholarship. - What academic requirement must a candidate meet to be eligible for the scholarship?
To be eligible, candidates should have secured a minimum of 40% marks in their previous annual examination. - How do a student apply for the scholarship under this scheme?
Application for the scholarship is submitted to Head of school/college/ institution who after verifying it shall forward to the District Social Security Officer (DSSO) of the concerned district.