The scheme “Educational Assistance to Children of Women Headed Families” was launched by the Social Justice Department, Government of Kerala. The number of women-headed families in Kerala is very high. The majority of these families are living in deplorable conditions. The scheme proposes to extend a helping hand to these families by providing financial assistance for children’s education. The women belong to Below Poverty Line (BPL) families/Priority families (Children of HIV/AIDS affected persons, socially discriminated persons, war widows, etc. are eligible irrespective of their BPL status). A family in which the husband of a woman is bedridden and unable to cover livelihood, due to stroke/or spinal injury can also get benefits under this scheme.
Benefits
Eligible children receive monthly financial assistance based on their level of education:
| Category | Educational Level | Financial Assistance (₹ per month) |
|---|---|---|
| Category I | Below 5 years, Class 1st – 5th | ₹300/- |
| Category II | Class 6th – 10th | ₹500/- |
| Category III | Plus One (11th) & Plus Two (12th) | ₹750/- |
| Category IV | Degree & Above | ₹1,000/- |
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must be a resident of Kerala.
- The applicant should belong to a Below Poverty Line (BPL) family.
- Priority is given to children of HIV/AIDS-affected persons, socially discriminated individuals, and war widows, even if they do not belong to BPL families.
- Families where the husband is bedridden due to stroke or spinal injury and unable to earn a livelihood are eligible.
- Only two children per family can benefit from this scheme.
- The child must be studying in a Government or Government-aided school or college.
Exclusions
- Children who are already availing other scholarships are not eligible for this assistance.
- A certificate from the educational institution must confirm that the child is not receiving any other scholarship.
Application Process
Offline Mode
- Visit the Nearest Office:
- The applicant must visit the nearest Anganwadi, Child Development Project Office, or Social Justice Office in Kerala.
- Obtain the Application Form:
- Collect the application form from the Child Development Project Officer through Anganwadi Workers.
- Alternatively, download the application form from the Official Website of the Social Justice Department, Kerala.
- Fill and Submit the Application Form:
- Complete the application form with accurate details.
- Attach all the required documents.
- Submit the filled application form to the concerned District Social Justice Office, Kerala.
Documents Required
- Identity proof (Aadhaar card, Voter ID, etc.).
- Passport-size photograph.
- Below Poverty Line (BPL) card.
- Residence proof (Ration card, electricity bill, etc.).
- Educational details of the child (Previous exam mark sheet, bonafide certificate).
- Bank account details.
- Certificate from the head of the educational institution stating that the child is not availing any other scholarship.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the purpose of the “Educational Assistance to Children of Women Headed Families” scheme?
A: The scheme provides financial assistance to support the education of children from women-headed families in Kerala.
Q: Which department launched this scheme?
A: The scheme was launched by the Social Justice Department, Government of Kerala.
Q: What are the financial benefits under the scheme?
A: The assistance ranges from ₹300 to ₹1,000 per month, depending on the child’s educational level.
Q: Who is eligible to apply?
A: Women-headed families below the poverty line (BPL) and priority families (HIV/AIDS-affected, war widows, socially discriminated families).
Q: Can a child studying in a private school/college apply?
A: No, the child must be enrolled in a Government or Government-aided institution.
Q: Can a child receiving another scholarship apply for this scheme?
A: No, students availing other scholarships are not eligible.
Q: How many children in a family can benefit?
A: Only two children per family can receive benefits under this scheme.
Q: Where do I submit the application form?
A: Submit the completed application form with required documents to the concerned District Social Justice Office in Kerala.