The State Talent Search Examination in Mathematics and Science is a scholarship scheme launched by the Education Department, Government of Meghalaya to identify and support bright tribal students in Meghalaya studying in Class VIII. The scheme is implemented by the Directorate of Educational Research & Training (DERT), Shillong.
The examination is conducted annually in all Sub-Divisional School Education Offices (SDSEOs) across the state, and successful candidates receive financial assistance to continue their education in Classes IX and X.
Objectives
- To identify and nurture talented students from tribal communities.
- To promote interest and excellence in Mathematics and Science among tribal students.
- To financially support meritorious tribal students in Meghalaya through an incentive-based scholarship.
Benefits
- Selected students receive ₹600 per month for 12 months, continuing for two years (Class IX-X).
- Total scholarship amount per student: ₹14,400 (₹600 x 24 months).
- Scholarship amount is directly transferred to the student’s bank account via NEFT/RTGS.
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must belong to a tribal community of Meghalaya (Khasi, Jaintia, Garo, Koch, or Hajong).
- The student must be studying in Class VIII in any recognized school in Meghalaya.
- The student must have secured at least 50 marks in aggregate in Mathematics and Science in Class VII.
- The student must continue studying in any recognized secondary school in Meghalaya after selection.
Application Process
Online Application Steps
- Register on the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) at https://scholarships.gov.in by clicking on “New Registration”.
- After successful registration, the student will receive a Student Registration ID.
- Use the Student Registration ID to log in via the “Fresh Application” section of the NSP Portal.
- Click on “Application Form”, fill in all details, and upload the required documents.
- Submit the application online by clicking the “Final Submit” button.
- Upon submission, a system-generated registration number will be issued for future reference.
Examination Notification & Selection Process
- DERT Shillong will notify the exam date via advertisements in local newspapers.
- The exam is conducted at all 15 Sub-Divisional School Education Offices (SDSEOs) under the supervision of Sub-Divisional School Education Officers (SDSEOs).
- Selection is merit-based, district-wise, as per the performance in the State Talent Search Examination (STSE).
- 40 students are selected from SDSEO Shillong & East Khasi Hills, and 20 students each from the remaining 14 SDSEOs.
Documents Required
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Identity Proof | Aadhaar Card |
| Passport Size Photograph | Mandatory |
| Educational Documents | Class VII Marksheet |
| Schedule Tribe Certificate | Proof of tribal status (Khasi, Jaintia, Garo, Koch, Hajong) |
| Residential/Domicile Certificate | Proof of residence in Meghalaya |
| Bonafide Student Certificate | If studying in a school located outside the domicile state |
| Bank Passbook Copy | Front page showing account details (for direct fund transfer) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the objective of the scheme?
The scheme aims to identify and support talented tribal students in Mathematics and Science, encouraging academic excellence.
Q: Who is the implementing agency for this scheme?
The scheme is implemented by the Directorate of Educational Research & Training (DERT), Shillong, under the Education Department, Government of Meghalaya.
Q: Who is eligible for the examination?
- Tribal students from Meghalaya (Khasi, Jaintia, Garo, Koch, Hajong).
- Students studying in Class VIII in any recognized school in Meghalaya.
- Students who secured at least 50 marks in Mathematics and Science in Class VII.
Q: How many students receive the scholarship each year?
- 40 students from SDSEO Shillong & East Khasi Hills.
- 20 students each from the remaining 14 SDSEOs.
Q: How long will the selected students receive the scholarship?
The incentive is given for two years (Class IX & X).
Q: Will the incentive be discontinued for a particular student?
Yes, if the student drops out or fails to meet performance criteria, the incentive may be discontinued.
Q: How do I apply for this incentive award?
Students must register online via the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) at https://scholarships.gov.in and appear for the State Talent Search Examination (STSE).
Q: Do I need a bank account to receive the scholarship?
Yes, the scholarship amount is transferred via NEFT/RTGS, so students must have an active bank account.