Launched in 2012, the scheme “Merit Cum Means Based Scholarship” by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India, aims to provide financial assistance to meritorious students from minority communities to pursue professional and technical courses. Through this scheme, monetary benefits are provided to support education-related expenses for eligible students belonging to minority groups, ensuring their socio-economic empowerment. The scheme is implemented by the State Government of Haryana in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs. The primary objectives of the scheme are to encourage higher education, support meritorious students from economically weaker backgrounds, and promote equitable education opportunities for minority communities.
Benefits
Financial Assistance
| Category | Amount (₹ per annum) | Breakdown |
|---|---|---|
| Hostellers | 30,000 | 10,000 (Maintenance) + Up to 20,000 (Course Fees) |
| Day Scholars | 25,000 | 5,000 (Maintenance) + Up to 20,000 (Course Fees) |
- Full course fees reimbursed for students enrolled in listed institutions.
- Scholarships are awarded directly to the student’s bank account via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
- Scholarship is renewable annually based on academic performance.
Eligibility Criteria
General Eligibility
- Must belong to a notified minority community (Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, or Parsi).
- Must be a resident of Haryana, regardless of place of study.
- Must have secured admission in a professional or technical course in a recognized institution.
- Must have scored at least 50% marks in the previous qualifying examination.
Income Criteria
- Annual family income should not exceed ₹2,50,000 from all sources.
Preference and Reservation
- 30% of scholarships reserved for girl students (transferable to male students if no eligible girls are available).
Exclusions
- Applicants receiving any other scholarship or stipend for the same course are not eligible.
- Scholarship benefits are forfeited if the student discontinues the course or changes the subject of study without prior approval.
Application Process
Online Application Steps
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Prepare Soft Copies of required documents before applying.
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Visit the National Scholarship Portal (NSP): NSP Portal.
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Click “Apply Now”, read the guidelines, accept the terms, and click “Continue”.
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Registration:
- Fill in the mandatory details (marked with *).
- Click “Register”, and an Application ID and Password will be generated.
- The Application ID will also be sent to the registered mobile number via SMS.
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Login to Apply:
- Enter Application ID, Password, and Captcha Code.
- Verify OTP sent to the registered mobile number.
- Reset the password and access the Applicant’s Dashboard.
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Fill the Application Form:
- Click “Application Form” on the left panel.
- Fill in the mandatory fields and upload required documents.
- Click “Save as Draft” (if incomplete) or “Final Submit” to complete the application.
Documents Required
- Student Photograph
- Institution Verification Form (Signed & Stamped)
- Self-Declaration of Income Certificate (by Student)
- Self-Declaration of Community Certificate (by Student)
- Academic Marksheet (Self-Attested)
- Fresh Applicants: Previous Academic Year Marksheet
- Renewal Applicants: Previous Year Marksheet
- Fee Receipt for the Current Academic Year
- Proof of Bank Account (in Student’s Name)
- Aadhaar Card (optional but recommended)
- Residential Certificate
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: What is the Merit Cum Means Based Scholarship scheme, and who implements it?
The scheme provides financial assistance to meritorious students from minority communities and is implemented by the State Government of Haryana in collaboration with the Union Ministry of Minority Affairs. - Q: What are the benefits provided under this scholarship scheme?
Hostellers receive ₹30,000 per year, and Day Scholars receive ₹25,000 per year, covering course fees and maintenance allowances. - Q: Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship?
Students from minority communities (Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, or Parsi) residing in Haryana and enrolled in recognized professional/technical courses. - Q: Can a student receiving another scholarship apply for this scheme?
No, students already receiving another scholarship or stipend for the same course are not eligible. - Q: What documents are required for applying under this scheme?
Aadhaar Card, Income Certificate, Community Certificate, Academic Marksheet, Fee Receipt, Proof of Bank Account, and Institution Verification Form. - Q: How can I apply for the scholarship?
Apply through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) by registering, filling in the application form, and uploading the required documents. - Q: What happens if a student discontinues the course after receiving the scholarship?
If a student drops out or changes the course without prior approval, the scholarship will be forfeited. - Q: What is the reservation policy for girl students under the scheme?
30% of scholarships are reserved for girl students, but if no eligible girls are available, the seats will be transferred to male candidates. - Q: How are students selected if they do not qualify through a competitive exam?
Selection is based on academic merit and financial need, following eligibility criteria. - Q: What is the grievance redressal mechanism for this scheme?
Applicants can reach out to the State Minority Welfare Department or use the National Scholarship Portal’s grievance section for queries. - Q: When are the application opening and closing dates?
The dates vary every year; students should check the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) for updates.