The scheme “Varnam Scheme for Transgender Students Pursuing Distance Education Courses” was launched by the Department of Social Justice, Government of Kerala. The Government has started this scheme for supporting Transgender students which provides financial assistance to Transgender students pursuing Degree/Diploma/ PG courses through distance education. Several Transgender students are not able to study regular courses in colleges but instead pursue Degree/Post Graduate courses via distance education. Due to their deprived financial conditions, they are unable to meet the expenses incurred for payment of Registration fees, Tuition fees, Exam fees, study materials, etc.
Aims & Objectives:
- Majority of the transgender persons are either dropouts or discontinue education in the early stages and due to the stigma the family members also disown them. Since they are unable to find a sustainable livelihood, they suffer financially. This scheme will support transgender students to complete their education successfully and earn a decent living and make them financially independent.
- With the help of this distance education scheme, transgender students will be able to pursue their desired courses.
- Transgender persons who are eligible for higher studies can complete their education and secure a decent job to lead a dignified life. This will encourage them to be self-sufficient and will open up a world of opportunities for such a target population.
Benefits:
- Under the scheme, a maximum amount of ₹24,000/- will be provided annually to each eligible Transgender student.
- For students pursuing PG courses the assistance will be provided for 2 years and for Under Graduate students the assistance will be given for 3 years.
Eligibility:
- The applicant should be a native and resident of Kerala State.
- The applicant should be Transgender.
- Transgender students pursuing Degree/Diploma/ PG courses from Open universities, Distance education, or Private registration are eligible to apply under the scheme.
Application Process:
Offline Process:
- Step 1: To apply for the scheme, the applicant needs to visit the nearest District Social Justice Office or download the application form from the official website of the Social Justice Department, Government of Kerala.
- Step 2: Fill out the application form completely, mentioning the course and university/study center.
- Step 3: Attach all necessary documents as specified below.
- Step 4: Submit the completed form along with documents to the District Social Justice Office.
Documents Required:
- Identity Proof (e.g., Aadhaar card).
- Passport Size Photo.
- Transgender Identity Card or Self-Declaration stating that the applicant is a Transgender person.
- Address Proof (e.g., Aadhaar or Voter’s ID card).
- Previous Semester Exam Hall Ticket.
- Bills/Vouchers/Receipts for registration fees, tuition fees, study materials, and examination fees certified by the District Social Justice Officer.
- Bank Account Details.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q1: Describes the “Varnam Scheme”?
For transgender students enrolled in Kerala’s Distance Education programs, the Varnam Scheme is a financial aid program.
Q2: For what aim is the scheme meant to serve?
The project aims to assist transgender students financially so they may pursue further education and achieve economic independence.
Q3: Starting this strategy has which department?
Initiating this program was the Department of Social Justice, Kerala Government.
Q4: Who qualifies to profit from the scheme?
The scholarship is open to transgender students doing Degree, Diploma, or PG degrees via Distance Education in Kerala.
Q5: Is this program open just for transgender students?
Indeed, the program is just for transgender kids from Kerala.
Q6: Are residents of Kerala alone eligible for this scheme?
Indeed, candidates should be people from Kerala.
Q7: What benefit the scheme offers?
For transgender students, the initiative pays up to ₹24,000 annually for education costs including registration, tuition, test fees, and study materials.
Q8:Which type of courses qualify under this program?
Under this plan, transgender students enrolled in Degree, Diploma, or PG degrees via Distance Education or Private Registration are qualified.
Q9: For what length of years will the PG course students get support?
PG courses will benefit from two years of support.
Q10: For what length of years will the students enrolled in Undergraduate courses be receiving support?
Support for Undergraduate courses will last three years.
Q11: From where may I find the application form?
The District Social Justice Office or the Social Justice Department’s official website will let one download the application form.
Q12: To which address should I mail the application?
The District Social Justice Office has to get the completed application form.
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