The Shikshashree Scheme was introduced by the Government of West Bengal in 2014-15 to provide financial assistance to Scheduled Caste (SC) students studying in Classes V to VIII. This scheme was created by merging the Book Grant and Maintenance Grant schemes to ensure better financial support, transparency, and accessibility for students.
The primary aim is to increase participation in pre-matric education and reduce dropout rates, especially among girl students. The scheme offers direct financial assistance to eligible students through bank transfers, making it easier for families to support their children’s education.
Objectives of the Scheme
- Provide financial assistance to SC students in Classes V-VIII.
- Encourage school attendance and reduce dropout rates, particularly among girls.
- Merge and simplify the previous schemes for a smoother, transparent, and efficient assistance process.
- Ensure direct benefit transfer (DBT) through bank accounts for better financial inclusion.
Benefits
Financial Assistance
Eligible students will receive scholarships directly in their bank accounts:
| Class | Annual Scholarship Amount (₹) |
|---|---|
| V | ₹750/- |
| VI | ₹750/- |
| VII | ₹750/- |
| VIII | ₹800/- |
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC) category.
- Must be a student of Class V to VIII in a Government, Government-aided, or Government-recognized school in West Bengal.
- Annual family income should not exceed ₹2.5 lakh.
- Only day scholars are eligible (not applicable to hostellers).
- The applicant must not be receiving any other scholarship or stipend for the same period.
- The student must have a bank account with core banking facilities in a nationalized bank.
- The scholarship will continue till Class VIII, subject to good conduct, attendance, and eligibility.
- If a student fails a class, they will not receive the scholarship for that repeated year, but they can reapply after promotion.
Application Process
Online Application
- Visit the Official Website
- Go to the Backward Classes Welfare Department & Tribal Development Department, West Bengal portal: https://oasis.gov.in/.
- Login as an Applicant
- Select User Type.
- Choose District.
- Choose Sub-Division.
- Select Block/Municipality.
- Select School.
- Enter User ID and Password.
- Click on Login.
- Access the Application Dashboard
- Click on “Application” on the left panel.
- Select “Fresh Shikshashree Application Form”.
- Fill the Application Form
- Provide personal details, school details, family income details, and bank account information.
- Upload the required documents.
- Click Submit to complete the process.
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card (Identity Proof)
- Scheduled Caste (SC) Certificate
- Address Proof (Ration Card, Voter ID, etc.)
- Family Income Certificate
- Passport-sized Photograph
- Bank Account Details (Bank Passbook Copy)
- Educational Documents (Last Exam Marksheet, School Certificate, etc.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the objective of the Shikshashree Scheme?
To provide financial assistance to Scheduled Caste students (SC) in Classes V-VIII to increase school participation and reduce dropout rates.
Q: When was this scheme introduced?
The scheme was launched during the 2014-15 academic year by the Government of West Bengal.
Q: Which schemes were merged to form Shikshashree?
The Book Grant and Maintenance Grant schemes were merged to form the Shikshashree Scheme.
Q: What is the amount of financial assistance provided?
- ₹750 per year for students in Classes V-VII.
- ₹800 per year for students in Class VIII.
Q: Is this scheme only for Scheduled Caste (SC) students?
Yes, only Scheduled Caste (SC) students are eligible for the Shikshashree Scheme.
Q: Can hostellers apply for the scheme?
No, only day scholars are eligible.
Q: What is the maximum family income allowed?
The family income should not exceed ₹2.5 lakh per annum.
Q: Will the scholarship continue if a student fails?
No, the scholarship will not be provided if a student repeats a class. However, they can reapply once promoted.
Q: Can a student receive other scholarships along with Shikshashree?
No, if a student is receiving any other scholarship or stipend, they cannot apply for Shikshashree.
Q: How can I apply for the Shikshashree Scheme?
Students must apply online through the OASIS portal by filling out the application form and uploading required documents.