The SMILE (Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise) Scheme is a scholarship initiative by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment aimed at providing financial assistance to Transgender students studying in secondary school (IX & X) and senior secondary school (XI & XII).
Objectives:
- To reduce the dropout rate of transgender students by providing financial support.
- To help transgender students continue their education and develop skills for livelihood opportunities.
- To provide a dignified space in society by overcoming barriers such as physical, financial, psychological, and mental challenges.
- To enable better access to educational institutions and vocational training.
- To encourage students studying in government and recognized private schools, polytechnics, and technical training institutes.
Benefits
- ₹13,500/- per year will be provided as a scholarship grant to eligible transgender students.
Eligibility
- The applicant must have a Transgender Certificate issued through the National Portal for Transgender Persons under the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment.
- Must be an Indian citizen.
- Must be studying in a recognized educational institution in India.
- Should not be availing of any other central or state government-funded Pre-Matric/Post-Matric scholarship.
- Scholarship is awarded based on merit, i.e., total marks achieved in the previous academic year.
- Preference is given to Post-Matric applicants over Pre-Matric applicants.
- In case of tie in merit, preference will be given to older candidates (based on Date of Birth).
Selection Process
- Scholarships are awarded based on merit, availability of slots, and academic performance.
- A final list of selected candidates will be published on the portal.
Conditions for Scholarship:
- The scholarship is subject to the student’s satisfactory academic progress.
- Scholarship will be canceled if the student is found guilty of misconduct, strikes, or irregular attendance.
- If the student has provided false information, the scholarship will be canceled immediately, and the amount received will be recovered with penalty.
- Scholarship is granted for one academic year only, and if the student fails the class, the scholarship will not be renewed.
Exclusions:
- Certificate courses are not covered under this scheme.
- If a student drops out, they must refund the scholarship amount.
Application Process
Online Application via the Transgender Portal
- Visit the official website: http://transgender.dosje.gov.in
- Click on “Registration” and complete the registration process.
- Login with received credentials and select “Scholarship”.
- Select Education Level and generate the Application Number.
- Fill in the application form with required details (profile, education, bank details, document upload).
- Upload required documents, including Transgender Certificate & ID.
- Review details and submit the application.
How to Get a Transgender Identity Certificate?
- Visit the National Transgender Portal: http://transgender.dosje.gov.in
- Click on “Online Registration” → “Register here”.
- Fill in details like name, email ID, contact number, state, and district.
- Verify the account via email confirmation and login.
- Fill out the Transgender Certificate application form and submit supporting documents.
- Once approved, download the Transgender Certificate & ID.
Documents Required
Fresh Applications:
- Passport-size photograph
- Transgender Identity Certificate (Issued through National Portal)
- Declaration from parents/guardian stating that the applicant is not availing of any other scholarship.
- Marksheet of the previous academic year (attested by the institution)
- Aadhaar Card (self-attested copy)
- Transfer Certificate (if applicable)
- Institute verification form (attested by the school/college/institution)
- Bank account details (Aadhaar-seeded bank account required)
For Renewal Applications:
- Marksheet from the previous academic year (attested by the institution)
- Bank account details (Aadhaar-seeded bank account required)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How often is the scholarship granted?
A: It is granted once every academic year.
Q: Do I need to apply for renewal every year?
A: Yes, students must apply for renewal every year by providing updated academic documents.
Q: Can I apply if I am already receiving another government scholarship?
A: No, students cannot receive benefits from multiple government-funded scholarships.
Q: What is the selection criteria for the scholarship?
A: Selection is based on merit, availability of slots, and previous academic performance.
Q: Is the scholarship available for certificate courses?
A: No, certificate courses are not covered under this scheme.
Q: Can I apply if I have not received my Transgender Identity Certificate?
A: No, having a Transgender Identity Certificate is mandatory for applying.