Haryana Merit Cum Means Scheme For Minority

The Haryana Merit Cum Means Scholarship for Minority Students is a flagship program launched in 2012 by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India, and implemented by the Haryana State Government. The scheme aims to empower meritorious students from minority communities by providing them financial assistance to pursue professional and technical education. It addresses the dual goals of reducing dropout rates and increasing access to higher education among economically weaker minority families.

Scheme Key Highlights (Short Summary)

• Launch Year: 2012
• Implementing Authority: Ministry of Minority Affairs (Government of India) + Haryana State Government
• Beneficiaries: Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, and Parsi students
• Coverage: Professional and technical courses in recognized institutions
• Reservation: 30% seats reserved for girl students (transferable to boys if unfilled)

Benefits

• Full fee reimbursement for students in listed institutions
• Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to student’s bank account
• Annual renewal based on academic performance

Eligibility Criteria

• Belong to a notified minority community (Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi)
• Be a resident of Haryana, irrespective of study location
• Enrolled in a professional or technical course at a recognized institution
• Minimum 50% marks in the previous qualifying exam
• Annual family income should not exceed ₹2,50,000
• 30% reservation for girls

Exclusions

• Students availing any other scholarship or stipend for the same course
• Discontinuation or change of course without prior approval results in loss of benefits

Application Process (Online)

1. Visit the National Scholarship Portal (NSP)

2. Click “Apply Now” → Accept terms → Continue

3. Fill the Registration Form → Get Application ID + Password (SMS sent to registered mobile)

4. Log in → Provide OTP → Set a new password → Access Applicant Dashboard

5. Click Application Form → Fill in details → Upload required documents

6. Choose to Save as Draft or Final Submit the application

Documents Required

• Student photograph
• Institution verification form
• Self-declaration of income
• Self-declaration of community
• Academic marksheet (previous year)
• Fee receipt (current academic year)
• Proof of bank account (student’s name)
• Aadhaar card (optional but recommended)
• Residential certificate

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is the Merit Cum Means Based Scholarship scheme, and who implements it?
  The Merit Cum Means Based Scholarship scheme, launched by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India, provides financial assistance to students from minority communities for professional and technical courses. It is implemented through State Governments/UT Administrations.
• What are the benefits provided under this scholarship scheme?
  The scheme provides up to ₹30,000 annually, including ₹10,000 as a maintenance allowance for hostellers and ₹20,000 towards course fees or the actual fee, whichever is lower. Day scholars receive ₹25,000 annually.
• Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship?
  The applicant must belong to a minority community, have at least 50% marks in the previous examination, and secure admission in professional or technical courses. The annual family income should not exceed ₹2.50 lakh.
• Can a student receiving another scholarship apply for this scheme?
  No, students already availing themselves of other scholarships or stipends are not eligible for the Merit Cum Means Based Scholarship scheme.
• What documents are required for applying under this scheme?
  Mandatory documents include a student photo, income certificate, community declaration, previous academic marksheets, fee receipt, Aadhaar card (optional), and proof of bank account in the student’s name.
• How can I apply for the scholarship?
  Applications must be submitted online through the National Scholarship Portal at www.scholarships.gov.in. Students should ensure they meet the eligibility criteria before applying.
• What happens if a student discontinues the course after receiving the scholarship?
  If a student discontinues their course, they must refund the scholarship amount. Additionally, students providing false information will be blacklisted from future scholarships.
• What is the reservation policy for girl students under the scheme?
  Thirty percent of the scholarships are reserved for girl students in each minority community within a State/UT. If not utilized, this quota may be transferred to eligible male students.
• How are students selected if they do not qualify through a competitive exam?
  Students without a competitive exam rank must have at least 50% marks in their last qualifying examination. Selection is based strictly on merit.
• What is the grievance redressal mechanism for this scheme?
  Applicants can address grievances through the National Scholarship Portal or the helpline provided on the website. State-level grievance officers also assist in resolving issues.
• When are the application opening and closing dates?
  The application period typically opens in the third quarter of the year. Specific dates are announced on the National Scholarship Portal and widely advertised by State Governments.

Sources and References

• Official National Scholarship Portal
• Ministry of Minority Affairs Guidelines