The Opening and Maintenance of Boys and Girls Hostels scheme, launched by the Adi Dravidar Welfare Department, Government of Puducherry, provides boarding and lodging facilities to Scheduled Caste (SC) students to support their education and prevent dropout rates at the school and college levels.
The initiative ensures that students from economically weaker backgrounds receive free hostel accommodation, meals, and financial support to pursue their education without financial stress.
Benefits
- Free Lodging.
- Free Boarding (meals provided in hostels).
- Cash payment in lieu of two pairs of clothing.
- Conveyance charges for six trips per year (three down and three up trips for home visits).
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must be from the Scheduled Caste (SC) community.
- The applicant must be a student (school or college level).
- The applicant must be a resident of Puducherry for at least five years.
- For Other Economically Backward Classes (EBC):
- The parent’s or guardian’s annual income must not exceed ₹75,000.
- The parent or guardian must not reside within a 5 km radius of the hostel.
Application Process
Online Application:
- Visit the e-District Portal of Puducherry.
- Click “Login” at the top right corner of the homepage.
- Select “Register a New Membership” and fill in details:
- Username & Password.
- Personal Details (Name, Email, Address, Gender, Date of Birth, Mobile Number).
- Captcha Code → Click “Signup”.
- Log in using your credentials.
- Select the hostel scheme from the list of available schemes.
- Fill in the application form and upload required documents.
- Tick the declaration box confirming the accuracy of details.
- Click “Submit” and note the application number (sent via SMS/Email).
- Track your application status on the same portal.
Offline Application:
- Visit the Adi Dravidar Welfare Department Office.
- Collect the application form.
- Fill in the form and attach required documents.
- Submit the completed application to the concerned department.
- Request a submission receipt for tracking purposes.
Documents Required
- Residence-cum-Nativity Certificate (issued by a competent authority).
- Caste Certificate (for SC applicants).
- Recent Passport-Size Photograph.
- Aadhaar Card.
- Bank Passbook (for financial benefits).
- Income Certificate (for Other Economically Backward Classes).
- Attested Copies of Educational Certificates (previous exam results).
- Birth Certificate.
- Bonafide Certificate from the current educational institution.
- Recommendation from the previous hostel warden (if applicable).
- Transfer Certificate (TC).
If Aadhaar is unavailable, provide Aadhaar Enrollment ID along with any one of the following:
- Bank/Post Office Passbook (with photo).
- PAN Card.
- Passport.
- Ration Card.
- Voter Identity Card.
- MGNREGA Job Card.
- Kisan Photo Passbook.
- Driving License.
- Identity Certificate issued by a Gazetted Officer/Tehsildar.
- Any other document specified by the department.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How does this scheme support Scheduled Caste students?
It provides free lodging, meals, conveyance, and financial support to help SC students complete their education without financial constraints.
Q: Is there any cash payment in addition to hostel benefits?
Yes, students receive a cash payment in lieu of two pairs of clothing.
Q: What role does residence play in eligibility?
The applicant must be a resident of Puducherry for at least five years and live more than 5 km away from the hostel.
Q: What is the primary aim of this scheme?
To reduce dropout rates by providing hostel facilities for students from weaker economic backgrounds.
Q: How many times a year are conveyance charges provided?
Six times per year (three trips home and three return trips).
Q: Why is a recommendation from the previous hostel warden required?
To verify the applicant’s discipline and academic progress in the previous hostel (if applicable).
Q: Can applicants from Other Economically Backward Classes apply?
Yes, but only if their parent/guardian’s income does not exceed ₹75,000 per annum.
Q: What documents are required for income verification?
An Income Certificate issued by a competent authority.
Q: Who is eligible to apply for the hostel scheme?
- Scheduled Caste students who are pursuing school or college education.
- Other Economically Backward Class students with an income limit of ₹75,000.
Q: What are the key benefits provided?
- Free lodging and meals.
- Cash assistance for clothing.
- Conveyance allowance for six trips per year.
Q: Is there compensation for delays in disbursal?
No official compensation, but applicants should track their application status online and follow up if needed.
Q: Is there an application deadline?
Application deadlines vary. Students should check with the Adi Dravidar Welfare Department for updates.