Kanyashree Prakalpa is a flagship welfare scheme by the Government of West Bengal that aims to prevent child marriage and promote education among girls. The scheme provides Conditional Cash Transfers (CCT) to economically disadvantaged adolescent girls, incentivizing them to continue education, delay marriage, and improve their socio-economic status.
This initiative not only offers financial aid but also ensures financial inclusion by directly transferring the scholarship and grant amount to the bank accounts of beneficiaries. The scheme has gained global recognition, including endorsement by the United Nations, as a best practice in girl-child empowerment.
Objectives of the Scheme
- Encourage secondary and higher education for socio-economically disadvantaged girls.
- Prevent child marriage by ensuring girls stay unmarried until at least 18 years of age.
- Reduce risks of early pregnancies, maternal mortality, and malnutrition.
- Build self-esteem and social power through education and empowerment programs.
- Create a generation of economically independent women who can contribute to society.
Benefits
1. Annual Scholarship
- ₹750 per year for girls studying in Class 8 to 12 in government-aided or recognized schools.
- The scholarship is renewable yearly, subject to the girl’s continued enrollment and good academic performance.
2. One-Time Grant
- ₹25,000 one-time grant for girls who:
- Have turned 18 years old.
- Are unmarried at the time of application.
- Wish to pursue higher education or vocational training.
Eligibility Criteria
General Eligibility
- Age:
- 13 to 18 years for the annual scholarship.
- 18 years or above for the one-time grant.
- Annual Family Income:
- Must be ₹1.2 lakh or below.
- Income limit not applicable for disabled girls, orphans, or girls in juvenile homes.
- Education:
- Must be studying in Class 8 to 12 in a government-aided or recognized school.
- Marital Status:
- Must be unmarried at the time of application.
- Residence:
- Must be a permanent resident of West Bengal.
Exclusions
- Girls younger than 13 years or older than 18 years (for the annual scholarship).
- Families earning more than ₹1.2 lakh per year.
- Married girls (not eligible for the one-time grant).
- Girls studying in private schools (not eligible for the annual scholarship).
- Non-residents of West Bengal.
Application Process
Offline Application
- Check Eligibility
- Ensure the applicant meets the age, income, education, and residence criteria.
- Obtain Application Form
- Collect the form from:
- School authorities
- Block Development Officer’s (BDO) office
- Official Kanyashree Prakalpa website
- Collect the form from:
- Fill Out the Application
- Provide personal, educational, and income details.
- Attach Supporting Documents
- Submit necessary certificates and proof documents.
- Submit the Application
- Submit the form to the school/college authorities or the BDO office.
- Verification & Approval
- Authorities will verify eligibility and process the application.
- Bank Transfer
- Approved beneficiaries will receive direct cash transfer to their bank accounts.
Documents Required
- Kanyashree Application Form (Filled & Signed)
- Birth Certificate / Age Proof
- Income Certificate
- Aadhaar Card
- Proof of Residence (Ration Card, Voter ID, or Electricity Bill)
- School Enrollment Certificate
- Bank Passbook Copy (for Direct Transfer)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the objective of Kanyashree Prakalpa?
To prevent child marriage and promote girls’ education in West Bengal.
Q: Who is eligible for the scheme?
Girls aged 13-18 years for the annual scholarship, and 18+ years (unmarried) for the one-time grant.
Q: What is the amount of financial assistance?
- ₹750 per year (Annual Scholarship)
- ₹25,000 one-time grant (Higher Education/Vocational Training)
Q: Can I apply online?
No, the application process is offline through schools, colleges, and BDO offices.
Q: What happens if a girl gets married before 18 years of age?
She becomes ineligible for both the scholarship and the one-time grant.
Q: Can girls studying in private schools apply?
No, only government-aided or recognized schools are eligible.
Q: Is there a fee for applying?
No, application for Kanyashree Prakalpa is completely free.
Q: What are Kanyashree Clubs?
Community groups in schools that support and empower girls, conduct events, and spread awareness about girls’ rights.