The “Chief Minister Merit Award” scheme was launched on 7th May 2012 by the Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare Department, Tamil Nadu. It aims to support meritorious students belonging to the Adi Dravidar, Tribal, and Adi Dravidar converted to Christianity communities. The scheme selects 1000 boys and 1000 girls based on their Plus 2 Public Examination marks and awards them financial assistance for higher education.
Benefits of the Scheme
- Financial Assistance: ₹3,000/- per year
- Duration: 5 consecutive years (as long as the student continues higher education)
- Total Award Amount: ₹15,000/- per student over 5 years
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must be a resident of Tamil Nadu.
- The applicant must belong to one of the following communities:
- Adi Dravidar
- Tribal
- Adi Dravidar converted to Christianity
- The student must have passed the Plus 2 Public Examination.
- The student must be continuing higher education after Plus 2.
Application Process
Offline Application
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Collect the Application Form
- The applicant should collect the application form from their respective educational institution.
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Fill Out the Application
- Enter all the mandatory details in the form.
- Attach passport-size photographs (signed across if required).
- Self-attest the required documents.
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Submit the Application
- Submit the completed application form along with supporting documents to the educational institution.
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Receive Acknowledgment
- Request a receipt or acknowledgment from the concerned authority.
- Ensure the acknowledgment includes the date, time of submission, and a unique identification number (if applicable).
Documents Required
- Proof of Identity (Aadhaar card or any other government-issued ID)
- Caste Certificate (Adi Dravidar/ Tribal/ Adi Dravidar converted to Christianity)
- Plus 2 Public Examination Marksheet
- Proof of Continuing Education (Admission or enrollment certificate)
- Bank Account Details (for Direct Benefit Transfer)
- Any Other Documents (if required by the department)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the purpose of this scheme?
A: The scheme provides financial assistance to meritorious students from Adi Dravidar, Tribal, and Adi Dravidar converted to Christianity communities, supporting their higher education.
Q: Who is eligible for the Chief Minister Merit Award?
A: Students belonging to the Adi Dravidar, Tribal, and Adi Dravidar converted to Christianity communities who have passed the Plus 2 Public Examination and are continuing their education.
Q: How much is the award amount?
A: The selected students receive ₹3,000 per year for five consecutive years.
Q: How long is the award granted for?
A: The scholarship is awarded for five years, provided the student continues their higher education.
Q: Is there an income limit for eligibility?
A: No income limit has been specified for eligibility.
Q: How are students selected?
A: Selection is based on the marks obtained in the Plus 2 Public Examination.
Q: What happens if a student discontinues education?
A: If a student discontinues education, the scholarship is stopped immediately.
Q: Can students from other communities apply?
A: No, only students from Adi Dravidar, Tribal, and Adi Dravidar converted to Christianity communities are eligible.
Q: Can students apply after the Plus 2 examination results?
A: Yes, students can apply after the results of the Plus 2 Public Examination are declared.
Q: How does a student apply for the award?
A: Students should collect the application form from their school/college, fill it out, attach necessary documents, and submit it to the educational institution.
Q: Can the award be renewed each year?
A: Yes, students must continue their education and meet eligibility criteria to receive the scholarship each year for up to five years.
Q: Who administers the scheme?
A: The Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare Department, Government of Tamil Nadu.
Q: When was the Chief Minister Merit Award introduced?
A: The scheme was launched on 7th May 2012.