The Children Education Assistance Fund (CEAF) is a state-sponsored scholarship scheme launched by the Department of School Education, Government of Nagaland, with the objective of supporting underprivileged students studying in government schools. Initiated on Children’s Day in 1990 and officially implemented from 1992, the scheme provides financial assistance to cover tuition fees, uniforms, textbooks, and other educational expenses.
Through merit-based examinations conducted at elementary and secondary levels, CEAF continues to promote inclusivity, reduce dropout rates, and enhance literacy among children from economically weaker sections in the state.
Short Summary
• Scheme Name: Children Education Assistance Fund (CEAF)
• State: Nagaland
• Launched On: 14th November 1990 (Children’s Day)
• Implemented By: Department of School Education, Nagaland
• Beneficiaries: Government school students of Class 5 and Class 9
• Mode of Application: Offline
• Selection Basis: Merit exam held in Class 5 (elementary stage) & Class 9 (secondary stage)
• Scholarship Duration: Up to Class 8 for elementary stage; up to Class 10 for secondary stage
Benefits
• Financial Assistance to cover:
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Tuition fees
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Textbooks and study materials
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Uniform expenses
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Other essential educational costs
• Merit-based Stipend awarded after a competitive exam (held annually in September)
• Scholarship Renewal subject to:
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Regular school attendance
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Good academic performance
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Positive conduct and discipline
• Encourages inclusivity by helping underprivileged children access education
• Reduces dropout rates and supports completion of basic education
Eligibility Criteria
• The student must be enrolled in a Government school in Nagaland
• Only students of Class 5 and Class 9 are eligible for the entrance exam
• Should not be studying in private schools
• Should not be receiving similar aid from other government schemes
• The student must not be repeating classes or over-age
• Must maintain good academic performance and regular attendance
Application Process
Offline Application
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Obtain Form: Collect the application form from the District Education Office (DEO) or via VEC/WEC (Village/Ward Education Committees) in May–June
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Fill the Form: Accurately fill in all details and attach the required documents
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Submit Application: Submit to the DEO or designated office before the notified deadline
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Verification: The Department verifies the details and documents
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Approval & Disbursement: On approval, assistance is transferred to the parent/guardian’s bank account
Merit exam is conducted in September using syllabus from the previous class (i.e., Class 4 syllabus for Class 5 students)
Documents Required
• Residence Proof (Nagaland domicile)
• Family Income Certificate
• Aadhaar Card / Identity Proof of child & guardian
• School Enrollment Certificate (from a Government school)
• Bank Account Details of parent/guardian (for DBT)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the age limit for availing benefits under the CEAF scheme?
The age limit for availing benefits under the CEAF scheme may vary depending on the guidelines set by the Department of School Education in Nagaland. Generally, the scheme is applicable for children studying in recognized schools up to the age of 18 years. - Can children studying in private schools apply for the CEAF scheme?
As per the guidelines set by the Department of School Education in Nagaland, the scheme is applicable for children studying in recognized schools only, which may include government schools, government-aided schools, and private schools recognized by the government - Can parents or guardians apply for the CEAF scheme online?
The application process for the CEAF scheme may vary depending on the guidelines set by the Department of School Education in Nagaland. Generally, applicants need to submit the application form along with necessary documents in person at the designated office. - Is there any provision for renewal of the CEAF scheme?
The guidelines for renewal of the CEAF scheme may vary depending on the guidelines set by the Department of School Education in Nagaland. Generally, applicants need to reapply for the scheme every year and meet the eligibility criteria. - Can children studying in colleges or higher education institutions apply for the CEAF scheme?
The CEAF scheme is applicable for children studying in recognized schools only, and not for higher education institutions. However, the state government may have other schemes or initiatives to support the education of students pursuing higher education. - What is the eligibility criteria for availing benefits under the CEAF scheme?
The eligibility criteria for the CEAF scheme may vary depending on the guidelines set by the Department of School Education in Nagaland. Generally, the scheme is applicable for children from economically weaker sections of society who are studying in recognized schools - What is the income limit for availing benefits under the CEAF scheme?
The income limit for availing benefits under the CEAF scheme may vary depending on the guidelines set by the Department of School Education in Nagaland. Generally, the scheme is applicable for children whose parents or guardians have an annual income below a certain threshold. - What is the process to apply for the CEAF scheme?
The application process for the CEAF scheme may vary depending on the guidelines set by the Department of School Education in Nagaland. Generally, eligible candidates can obtain the application form from the respective school authorities or from the District Education Office. The completed form along with the required documents should be submitted to the respective school authorities or to the District Education Office. - What documents are required to apply for the CEAF scheme ?
The documents required to apply for the CEAF scheme may vary depending on the guidelines set by the Department of School Education in Nagaland. Generally, candidates may be required to submit documents such as income certificates, residential proofs, birth certificates, and school attendance records. - Can I apply for the CEAF scheme online?
The application process for the CEAF scheme may not be available online. Eligible candidates can obtain the application form from the respective school authorities or from the District Education Office.