🎓 Education & Students Schemes India 2026
47 students schemes + 9 other education schemes + 20 scholarship hub pages — scholarships, fellowships & education loans
📜 Looking for dedicated scholarship pages?
We have 20 comprehensive scholarship hub pages with deeper coverage — eligibility, last dates & apply links.
Students Schemes (47)
Scholarships · Fellowships · Education Loans · JNV/Sainik/EMRS · Coaching · Research Grants
PM YASASVI Scholarship Scheme 2025
PM Young Achievers Scholarship Award Scheme for Vibrant India provides scholarships to OBC, EBC, and DNT students for education in Classes 9-12.
PM POSHAN — Free Mid-Day Meal Scheme 2025
PM Poshan Shakti Nirman (formerly Mid-Day Meal Scheme) provides free hot cooked meals to students in government and government-aided schools to improve nutrition and boost school attendance.
National Scholarship Portal (NSP) 2026 — Apply for Central Scholarships Online
The National Scholarship Portal is a one-stop platform for students to apply for all central government scholarship schemes including pre-matric, post-matric, and merit-cum-means scholarships for SC, ST, OBC, and minority students.
NMMS Scholarship 2026 — ₹12,000/Year for Class 9-12 Meritorious Students | scholarships.gov.in
National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship (NMMS) is a centrally sponsored scholarship scheme that provides ₹12,000 per year (₹1,000/month) to meritorious students from economically weaker sections studying in Classes 9 to 12 in government schools. The scholarship continues for all 4 years (Class 9 to 12) subject to annual renewal. Apply through scholarships.gov.in.
PM CARES for Children 2026 — COVID Orphans: ₹10 Lakh at 18 + Free Education + Health
PM CARES for Children scheme provides comprehensive support to children who lost both parents or legal guardian due to COVID-19. Benefits include: ₹10 lakh corpus deposited in their name (accessible at age 18), free education from Class 1 to Class 12 (Navodaya/KVS or state residential schools), PM-JAY health insurance up to ₹5 lakh, and monthly stipend after 18 years.
Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan 2026 — Free Uniform, Books, Midday Meal for All Government School Students
Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan is an integrated school education scheme covering pre-school to Class 12, implemented from 2018 by merging SSA, RMSA, and TE. It provides free textbooks, uniforms (₹600/year), Midday Meal, ICT labs, sports equipment, and special needs support to students in all government schools. It also funds teacher training, school infrastructure, and equity interventions for girls and marginalised communities.
PM Vidya Lakshmi Scheme 2026 — Collateral-Free ₹10 Lakh Education Loan | pmvidyalakshmi.co.in
PM Vidya Lakshmi Scheme, approved by Cabinet in November 2024, provides collateral-free education loans of up to ₹10 lakh to meritorious students admitted to Quality Higher Education Institutions (QHEIs). Students from families with annual income up to ₹8 lakh get a 75% credit guarantee, removing the need for collateral or guarantor. For families with income up to ₹4.5 lakh, the government pays the full interest during the moratorium (study period + 1 year). Students can apply to up to 3 banks simultaneously through a single Common Education Loan Application Form (CELAF) at pmvidyalakshmi.co.in.
One Nation One Subscription (ONOS) 2026 — Free Research Journal Access for 1.8 Crore Students | ₹6,000 Crore
One Nation One Subscription (ONOS) is a Government of India scheme approved in November 2024 with Rs.6,000 crore outlay to provide free access to 13,000+ international research journals and databases to over 6,300 government higher education institutions (universities, colleges, IITs, NITs, AIIMS) and 1.8 crore+ students, faculty, and researchers. Previously, institutions paid individually — ONOS centralises subscriptions via the government, saving institutions lakhs per year. Implemented by INFLIBNET Centre under Ministry of Education. Access via e-Shodh Sindhu portal (ess.inflibnet.ac.in).
ULLAS — Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakram 2026 — Free Adult Literacy Programme for Non-Literates 15+
ULLAS (Understanding of Lifelong Learning for All in Society) — also called Nav Bharat Saksharta Karyakram or New India Literacy Programme (NILP) — is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme launched in February 2022 to make 5 crore adult non-literates (age 15+) functionally literate by 2027. The scheme has five components: (1) Foundational Literacy and Numeracy; (2) Critical Life Skills (financial, digital, legal, electoral); (3) Vocational Skills; (4) Basic Education (Class 3–8 equivalency); and (5) Continuing Education. ULLAS leverages volunteers (teachers, students, NGOs, retirees) and the DIKSHA + ULLAS App for self-paced digital learning in 22 Indian languages. Annual Foundational Literacy Assessment Test (FLNAT) certifies learners.
PM-USHA Higher Education Scheme 2026 — ₹12,926 Crore | Quality Higher Education Across States
Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA) is the restructured higher education scheme approved in 2023 with Rs 12,926 crore outlay for 5 years. PM-USHA replaces the earlier RUSA (Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan) with stronger NEP 2020 alignment. It funds state and central universities, colleges, multi-disciplinary education and research universities (MERUs), and cluster universities. Key components: (1) Strengthening existing universities; (2) New model degree colleges in underserved districts; (3) Grants to gender-inclusive and accessible institutions; (4) Multi-disciplinary curriculum reform; (5) Equity initiatives for SC/ST/OBC/women/PwD. Implemented through Project Approval Boards (PABs) at central and state levels.
Khelo India Scheme 2026 — ₹5 Lakh/Year Athlete Scholarship | Khelo India Youth Games | KIRTI Talent Search
Khelo India is the Government of India's flagship sports development scheme launched in 2018 to revive sports culture, identify talent, and create world-class sports infrastructure. Components: (1) Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) — annual multi-sport competition for under-17 and under-21 athletes; (2) Khelo India University Games (KIUG) — for university students; (3) Khelo India Talent Identification — top athletes get ₹6.28 lakh/year scholarship (₹120,000 stipend + boarding/lodging + training + competition exposure) for 8 years through Khelo India Athlete (KIA) status; (4) KIRTI (Khelo India Rising Talent Identification) — talent hunt scheme for under-14 to under-17 with 1 lakh+ athletes assessed annually; (5) Khelo India Centres — 1,000+ sports centres across districts.
PM Scholarship Scheme (PMSS-CAPF) 2026 — ₹3,000/Month for Defence & CAPF Dependents | scholarships.gov.in
Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme (PMSS) — administered by the Welfare and Rehabilitation Board (Defence Ministry) and Ministry of Home Affairs (CAPFs) — provides ₹3,000/month (boys) and ₹3,250/month (girls) to wards/widows of ex-Defence personnel (Army/Navy/Air Force/Coast Guard) and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF — BSF, CRPF, ITBP, CISF, SSB, Assam Rifles) for professional courses (engineering, medical, MBA, dental, veterinary, computer applications). 5,500 scholarships annually for Defence, 2,000 for CAPF.
Post-Matric Scholarship for SC Students 2026 — Full Tuition + ₹13,500 Maintenance | scholarships.gov.in
Centrally Sponsored Post-Matric Scholarship for Scheduled Caste (PMS-SC) is the largest scholarship scheme in India by coverage — benefiting 60+ lakh SC students annually for studies after Class 10 (Class 11/12, ITI, diploma, graduation, post-graduation, PhD). Covers full tuition fees (including hostel charges in some categories), maintenance allowance (₹230-₹1,200/month based on group), book allowance, study tour allowance, and disability allowance for PwD students. Annual outlay: ₹6,000+ crore. Implemented through National Scholarship Portal (NSP).
Pre-Matric Scholarship for SC/ST Students 2026 — ₹350-₹1,000/Month for Class 1-10 | scholarships.gov.in
Pre-Matric Scholarship for SC and ST students is the centrally-sponsored scheme for Class 1-10 students from Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe communities. Provides maintenance allowance, book allowance, and additional allowances for SC/ST students whose families earn ≤ ₹2.5 lakh/year. Two separate schemes: Pre-Matric for SC (administered by Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment) and Pre-Matric for ST (administered by Ministry of Tribal Affairs). Covers Class 1-10 — different rates for day scholars vs hostellers. Over 50 lakh SC + 30 lakh ST students benefit annually. Implemented through NSP.
PRABUDDHA Scheme 2026 — Overseas Education Funding for Marginalised Students | scholarships.gov.in
PRABUDDHA Scheme is the Government of Karnataka's initiative — emulated by other states — providing financial assistance to meritorious students from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Backward Communities to pursue higher studies in top global universities. Up to ₹50 lakh per student covering tuition + living + travel. Top 200 universities (QS Rankings) eligible. Originally Karnataka state scheme but now central counterpart National Overseas Scholarship Scheme covers similar mandate for SC/ST nationally. Combined coverage benefits over 100 marginalised students per year for Masters/PhD abroad.
PM Research Fellowship (PMRF) 2026 — ₹70,000/Month + ₹2L Research Grant for IIT/IISc PhD | pmrf.in
PM Research Fellowship (PMRF) is a prestigious scholarship scheme launched in 2018 by the Ministry of Education to attract the best Bachelor's/Master's students into PhD programmes at IITs, IISc, IISERs, NITs, and other premier research institutions. Fellowship amount: ₹70,000/month for all 5 years (revised from the earlier ₹31,000-70,000 slab structure). Research grant of ₹2 lakh per year for first 2 years, ₹2 lakh for 3rd year, ₹2 lakh for 4th and 5th year — total ₹10 lakh over 5 years. Selection is through direct admission or lateral entry from premier IITs/IISc/IISERs. Three channels: (1) Direct Admission from 4-year BS/B.Tech final year at premier institutes; (2) Lateral Entry from 2nd year of ongoing PhD; (3) Supernumerary seats for other students through national test. Target: 3,000 new fellows per year across Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Currently 4,000+ active PMRF fellows.
Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) 2026 — Free Residential School for Tribal Children | tribal.nic.in
Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) is a flagship scheme of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs providing FREE quality residential education to Scheduled Tribe (ST) children from Class 6 to Class 12. Launched in 1997, EMRS schools are fully residential — providing free boarding, lodging, tuition, uniform, books, stationery, and medical care. The scheme aims to establish one EMRS in every block with ST population above 50% and at least 20,000 tribal population, by 2022 (extended to 2026). Currently over 688 EMRS schools are functional across 27 states/UTs, benefiting over 1.5 lakh students. Each EMRS school has capacity for 480 students. Budget enhanced to ₹38,000 crore for 2018-2022. Schools follow CBSE curriculum and have modern facilities including science labs, libraries, computer rooms, and sports facilities. Tribal students also get JEE/NEET coaching at EMRS. National Admission Test (EMRS-NAT) conducted for admission.
AICTE Saksham Scholarship 2026 — ₹50,000/Year for PwD Engineering Students | aicte-india.org
AICTE Saksham (Scholarship for Aiding the Careers of Students with Specially-Abled Merits) is a scholarship scheme by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) that provides ₹50,000 per year to Persons with Disability (PwD) pursuing undergraduate technical/engineering degree programmes at AICTE-approved institutions. The scholarship covers B.Tech, B.E., B.Arch, B.Pharma, HMCT, and other 4-year technical programmes. Eligibility: disability of 40% or more, family income ≤ ₹8 lakh per annum, admission to 1st year of AICTE-approved institution. Up to 1,000 scholarships awarded per year on merit. Application through National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in). Fresh and renewal applications accepted. Scholarship paid directly to student bank account.
Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF) 2026 — ₹37,000/Month for Minority PhD Students | minorityaffairs.gov.in
Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF) is a central government fellowship scheme for students belonging to notified minority communities (Muslim, Christian, Buddhist, Sikh, Parsi, Jain) pursuing M.Phil and PhD at recognised universities in India. Fellowship amount: ₹37,000/month for JRF (first 2 years) and ₹42,000/month for SRF (next 3 years), plus contingency allowance ₹10,000/year (Humanities/Social Sciences) and ₹12,000/year (Sciences). HRA as per university norms. Duration: up to 5 years total (2 years JRF + 3 years SRF). 756 new fellowships per year. Selection through NET-JRF score (UGC-NET or CSIR-NET). Implemented by University Grants Commission (UGC) on behalf of Ministry of Minority Affairs. Application on NSP/scholarship portal. Note: As per 2023 Supreme Court ruling and government review — verify current status before applying as scheme has had regulatory changes.
Indira Gandhi Scholarship for Single Girl Child 2026 — ₹36,200/Year for PG | ugc.ac.in
The Indira Gandhi Scholarship for Single Girl Child is a UGC (University Grants Commission) scholarship scheme recognising the value of Single Girl Child and promoting higher education for girls who are the only child in their family. It provides ₹36,200 per year (₹3,100/month for 10 months + HRA as applicable) for Post-Graduate (PG) students. Duration: 2 years (for 2-year PG programme). The scholarship is available for full-time regular first-year PG courses at any recognised university. 3,000 scholarships awarded per year through merit-cum-means basis. Family income: no income limit specified. Eligibility: Indian woman student, only child of her parents (OR one of 2 girl children with no male sibling — check latest UGC guidelines), admission to 1st year PG. Application through NSP (scholarships.gov.in) or UGC portal. Note: This is the PG fellowship; the PhD-level Indira Gandhi Single Girl Child National Fellowship has separate guidelines (₹37,000/month for PhD).
Padho Pardesh Scheme 2026 — Interest Subsidy on Overseas Education Loans for Minority Students | minorityaffairs.gov.in
Padho Pardesh is a central government scheme under the Ministry of Minority Affairs that provides interest subsidy on education loans for students from minority communities (Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, Parsi, Jain) who take bank loans to pursue higher studies abroad — at Masters, M.Phil, or PhD level. The scheme pays the full interest on the education loan during the moratorium period (course duration + 1 year grace period). Post-moratorium, the student repays EMI normally. Family income limit: ₹6 lakh per annum. Loan through member banks of IBA (Indian Banks Association). No loan amount ceiling — but typically covers actual overseas tuition/living costs. Priority to students from economically weaker minority families. Applications through Maulana Azad Education Foundation (MAEF) via bank. Note: Scheme was under review/discontinued and later revised — verify current 2026 status at minorityaffairs.gov.in.
National Fellowship for SC Students (NFSC) 2026 — ₹37,000/Month PhD Fellowship for SC | socialjustice.gov.in
National Fellowship for Scheduled Castes (NFSC) is a central government scholarship scheme under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment that provides full financial support to SC students pursuing M.Phil and PhD at universities and institutions recognized by UGC/AICTE. Fellowship amount mirrors UGC standards: JRF ₹37,000/month (first 2 years) and SRF ₹42,000/month (next 3 years), plus contingency allowance (₹10,000/year Humanities, ₹12,000/year Sciences). HRA as per university. 2,000 new fellowships per year. Selection through NET-JRF qualification (UGC-NET, CSIR-NET, SET). Application on NSP (scholarships.gov.in). Not to be combined with other central fellowships. Open to all SC students — not limited to specific disciplines. Up to 5 years duration. Administered by UGC.
National Fellowship for ST Students (NFST) 2026 — ₹37,000/Month PhD Fellowship for Tribal Students | tribal.gov.in
National Fellowship for Scheduled Tribes (NFST) is a central government scheme under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs providing full financial fellowship to ST students pursuing M.Phil and PhD at UGC-recognised institutions. Amount: JRF ₹37,000/month (2 years) + SRF ₹42,000/month (3 years) + contingency ₹10,000/year (Humanities) or ₹12,000/year (Sciences) + HRA. Duration: 5 years. 667 new fellowships per year. Selection through UGC-NET-JRF or CSIR-NET-JRF score. Application through NSP/scholarships.gov.in or tribal.gov.in. Not combinable with any other central fellowship. Covers all disciplines. Implemented by UGC on behalf of Ministry of Tribal Affairs. Primarily targeted at reducing the PhD dropout rate among tribal students by providing financial security.
Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) 2026 — Free CBSE Residential School for Rural Students | navodaya.gov.in
Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV) is the Government of India's flagship FREE residential school scheme for talented rural children. 661 JNV schools across India, one per district. Provides FREE education + boarding + meals + uniforms + books from Class 6 to 12 in CBSE curriculum. Admission via JNV Selection Test (JNVST) for Class 6 (Class 9 lateral entry also available). 80% seats reserved for rural students. SC/ST/OBC/Girl reservations apply. Over 3 lakh students attend JNVs.
Sainik School Admission 2026 — AISSEE Entrance Exam | Free Subsidy for SC/ST/OBC | sainikschoolsociety.in
Sainik Schools are 33 fully-residential CBSE-affiliated schools across India established to prepare students for the National Defence Academy (NDA) and other military service entries. Admission via All India Sainik Schools Entrance Examination (AISSEE) for Class 6 and Class 9. State governments provide scholarships covering full fees for SC/ST/OBC/EWS students. Even general students get partial subsidy (up to ₹15,000/year for general; ₹25,000-₹40,000 for SC/ST). Strong tradition — many alumni become Army officers, IAS, IPS.
Free Coaching Scheme for SC/ST/OBC Students 2026 — Central Free Coaching for UPSC, JEE, NEET | socialjustice.gov.in
Free Coaching Scheme for SC/ST/OBC Students is the Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment's central scheme providing FREE coaching at top private institutes for SC/ST/OBC students preparing for: UPSC Civil Services, IIT-JEE, NEET, CAT, CLAT, GATE, Bank PO/Clerk, SSC, Railway, NDA, CDS. Plus monthly stipend ₹6,000-₹8,000. Family income ≤ ₹8 lakh. Empanelled institutes include Akash, Vajiram & Ravi, FIITJEE, Career Launcher etc. Aim: bridge coaching access gap for marginalised students.
KVPY (Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana) — Status 2026 | Now Merged with INSPIRE | dst.gov.in
Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana (KVPY) was India's flagship national fellowship for school students (Class 11-12) and undergraduate students pursuing pure science (B.Sc/Int.MSc) at recognized Indian institutions. Run by Department of Science & Technology (DST) since 1999. Provided ₹5,000-₹7,000/month + ₹20,000-₹28,000 annual contingency. **DISCONTINUED IN 2022** — KVPY merged into INSPIRE Scholarship Scheme for Higher Education (SHE) administered by DST. Students who were KVPY fellows continue to receive their fellowships. New applicants should apply to INSPIRE.
CSIR Junior Research Fellowship (CSIR-JRF) 2026 — ₹37,000/Month for Research in CSIR Labs | csirhrdg.res.in
CSIR Junior Research Fellowship (CSIR-JRF) is the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research's fellowship for PhD researchers at CSIR's 38 national laboratories (NCL, IICB, IICT, CFTRI, NPL, etc.) and recognized universities. Awarded to candidates who clear CSIR-UGC NET with JRF rank. ₹37,000/month (JRF, 2 years) + ₹42,000/month (SRF, 3 years) for 5-year PhD. Plus annual contingency ₹20,000. Critical for science research career.
DBT-JRF Biotechnology Research Fellowship 2026 — ₹37,000/Month for PhD in Biotechnology | dbtindia.gov.in
Department of Biotechnology Junior Research Fellowship (DBT-JRF) is awarded to top performers in DBT-JRF Biotechnology Eligibility Test (BET) for PhD research in life sciences / biotechnology / molecular biology. ₹37,000/month (JRF) → ₹42,000/month (SRF) for 5 years + research contingency. ~275 fellowships per year (Category I: 225, Category II: 50). For research at top Indian institutes including ICGEB, NII, CDFD, IISc, etc.
ICMR Junior Research Fellowship (ICMR-JRF) 2026 — ₹37,000/Month for Medical Research | main.icmr.nic.in
Indian Council of Medical Research Junior Research Fellowship (ICMR-JRF) is awarded to top performers in ICMR-JRF Entrance Examination for PhD research at ICMR's 26 institutes + other medical research centres. Subjects: Biomedical sciences, Public Health, Medical Statistics, Health Economics. ₹37,000/month (JRF) → ₹42,000/month (SRF) for 5-year PhD + annual contingency. ~50-60 fellowships per year. Highly prestigious for medical research career.
AICTE Yashasvi Scholarship 2026 — ₹12,000-₹18,000/Year for Engineering/Diploma Students | aicte-india.org
AICTE Yashasvi Scholarship Scheme is a merit-based scholarship for engineering, diploma, and management students enrolled in AICTE-approved institutions. Provides ₹12,000/year for Diploma students and ₹18,000/year for UG (BE/BTech) and PG students. Aimed at supporting meritorious students from economically weaker sections (family income ≤ ₹8 lakh/year). About 50,000+ scholarships awarded annually. Apply online at AICTE National Scholarship Portal (NSP — scholarships.gov.in) every year between October-December. Direct DBT transfer to Aadhaar-linked bank account.
National Overseas Scholarship for OBC/EBC 2026 — Up to ₹40 Lakh for Foreign Master's/PhD | socialjustice.gov.in
National Overseas Scholarship Scheme for OBC and EBC (Economically Backward Class) students provides financial assistance to pursue Master's and PhD courses abroad at top 500 QS-ranked foreign universities. Annual maintenance allowance (~$15,400/year), full tuition fee reimbursement, equipment allowance, visa fee, one-time airfare (economy class). Total benefit up to ₹40 lakh per student over the course. Around 70 scholarships per year (50 OBC + 20 EBC). Administered by Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. Family income ≤ ₹8 lakh/year. Apply online when notification released (usually February-March).
PM Scholarship Scheme (PMSS) 2026 — ₹2,500-₹3,000/Month for Defence Personnel Children | ksb.gov.in
Prime Minister's Scholarship Scheme (PMSS) for the wards and widows of Ex-Servicemen and Ex-Coast Guard personnel — administered by the Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB), Ministry of Defence. Boys receive ₹2,500/month and Girls receive ₹3,000/month for a maximum of 5 years (depending on course duration). 5,500 fresh scholarships per year. For Professional Courses: Engineering, Medical, Dental, Veterinary, MBA, BBA, BCA, MCA, Law, Architecture, Pharmacy etc. at recognized Indian institutions. Apply online at ksb.gov.in/pmss every August-October.
National Scholarship for Persons with Disabilities (NSPwD) 2026 — ₹500-₹2,500/Month + Course Fee | disabilityaffairs.gov.in
National Scholarship for Persons with Disabilities (NSPwD) is a central government scheme for students with 40%+ benchmark disability pursuing technical, professional, and academic courses post-Class 10. Provides Maintenance Allowance: ₹500/month (Day Scholar) or ₹2,500/month (Hosteller) + Course Fee reimbursement up to ₹10,000 per year + ₹6,000 reader allowance for visually impaired. Around 5,500 scholarships per year. Two streams: Pre-Matric (Class 9-10) and Post-Matric (Class 11 to PhD). Administered by Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice. Apply online at scholarships.gov.in.
ICCR Scholarship Scheme 2026 — Full Tuition + Living Allowance for Foreign Students in India | iccr.gov.in
Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) Scholarship Scheme is offered by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) for foreign nationals to pursue UG, PG, MPhil, and PhD studies at Indian universities and institutes. Around 22 schemes covering ~3,940 scholarships per year for students from 140+ countries. Benefits: Full tuition fee + Monthly Living Allowance (₹18,000 UG, ₹20,000 PG, ₹22,000 MPhil/PhD) + Hostel/House Rent + Annual Contingency + Thesis allowance + Medical benefit + Economy class airfare. Specially aimed at strengthening India's cultural diplomacy. Apply on Admissions to Alumni Portal (A2A — a2ascholarships.iccr.gov.in) every year between February-April.
NIOS Scholarship Scheme 2026 — ₹3,000-₹5,000/Year for Open School Students | nios.ac.in
National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) Scholarship Scheme provides financial assistance to meritorious open school learners. Multiple sub-schemes: NIOS Topper Scholarship for Class 10 and Class 12 top scorers (₹5,000-₹15,000 one-time), NIOS Scholarship for Persons with Disabilities (PwD — full fee waiver + ₹3,000/year), and Scholarship for SC/ST/OBC Single Girl Child + Below Poverty Line learners (50-100% fee exemption + maintenance allowance). For learners studying Secondary (Class 10), Senior Secondary (Class 12), and Open Vocational Education Programme (OVEP) through NIOS. Around 1.5 lakh learners benefit annually. Apply through NIOS regional centre or online portal during course registration period.
PM YUVA 3.0 Mentorship Scheme 2026 — ₹50,000/Month + Royalty for Young Authors | innovateindia.mygov.in
Prime Minister's Scheme for Mentoring Young Authors (PM YUVA) — administered by the Ministry of Education through the National Book Trust (NBT) — is an author mentorship programme to nurture young writers under 30 years. Selected authors get ₹50,000/month consolidated scholarship for 6 months under mentorship + 10% royalty on published book sales. 75 young authors selected annually under different themes. Books are published in Hindi, English, and 22 Indian languages by NBT. PM YUVA 3.0 (announced 2024-25 for FY2025-26) focuses on themes like 'Vision of India @ 2047', 'Indian Knowledge Systems', and 'Indian Democracy'. Apply through innovateindia.mygov.in on theme launch.
Maulana Azad Education Foundation Scholarship 2026 — ₹6,000-₹12,000/Year for Minority Students | maef.nic.in
Maulana Azad Education Foundation (MAEF) is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Minority Affairs that provides scholarships to meritorious girl students belonging to notified minority communities (Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis). The MAEF Girls' Scholarship Scheme (the main scheme) provides ₹12,000 one-time scholarship to Class 11 girl students who scored 55%+ in Class 10. The MAEF Begum Hazrat Mahal Girls' Scholarship pays ₹6,000-₹12,000/year. The scheme aims at increasing female literacy and reducing dropouts among minority girls. Around 30,000+ girls benefit annually. Apply online at maef.nic.in.
NIPUN Bharat Mission 2026 — National Foundational Literacy & Numeracy Programme for Class 1–3 | nipunbharat.education.gov.in
NIPUN Bharat (National Initiative for Proficiency in Reading with Understanding and Numeracy) is a flagship mission launched on 5 July 2021 by the Ministry of Education under the National Education Policy 2020. The mission's goal is to ensure that every child in India achieves basic foundational literacy (reading with comprehension) and numeracy (basic arithmetic) skills by the end of Grade 3 (age 8–9) by 2026–27. Implemented through Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan across all 36 states and union territories covering over 3.5 crore children in 11.5 lakh government and government-aided primary schools. The programme trains teachers through the DIKSHA platform (National Digital Infrastructure for Teachers) and uses structured pedagogy materials — Jaadui Pitara (magic box of play-based learning materials) provided free to all Class 1–3 students. Assessment of foundational learning outcomes is done through SARTHAQ (Students' and Teachers' Holistic Advancement through Quality Education) framework and National Achievement Survey (NAS).
Viksit Bharat Ambassador Programme 2026 — Youth Ambassadors for Developed India 2047 | viksitbharat.gov.in
Viksit Bharat Ambassador Programme is a youth outreach and citizen engagement initiative launched by the Government of India under the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision — India's ambitious goal of becoming a developed nation by its 100th year of independence. The programme officially launched its Sampark (Connect) activities in 2023-24, with large-scale ambassador registrations across colleges and institutions in 2024-25. Student Ambassadors: College students, university graduates, and young professionals (18-35 years) volunteer as Viksit Bharat Ambassadors at their institution, spreading awareness about government flagship schemes in their community. Activities include: conducting Viksit Bharat Surveys (digital feedback forms on government policies), sharing scheme information via WhatsApp/social media, organising gram sabha awareness sessions, and mobilising beneficiaries to apply for 9+ flagship schemes. My Bharat Platform: The programme runs through 'My Bharat' digital platform (mybharat.gov.in) — a national youth digital platform connecting 1 crore+ young volunteers with government programmes. Volunteers earn experience certificates, skill badges, and in some cases internship opportunities at government departments. Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra: The massive outreach campaign (December 2023–February 2024) covered 2.55 lakh gram panchayats across India using van campaigns, connecting 10 crore+ citizens with 9 flagship schemes.
PM e-VIDYA / DIKSHA 2026 — Free Digital Education Platform for Students & Teachers | diksha.gov.in
PM e-VIDYA is a comprehensive digital education initiative launched in May 2020 under the Atmanirbhar Bharat package, integrating multiple digital learning platforms to provide one-stop access to education for all students from Class 1-12 and teachers. DIKSHA (Digital Infrastructure for Knowledge Sharing) is the core platform — India's largest digital learning ecosystem with 6,000+ crore learning sessions, 27+ crore registered users, and content in 35 Indian languages. Key components: (1) DIKSHA portal/app: Free NCERT-aligned content (textbooks, videos, assessments) for Classes 1-12 in all major Indian languages — QR codes on NCERT textbooks link directly to DIKSHA content; (2) SWAYAM Prabha: 34 DTH TV channels broadcasting educational content 24x7 (accessible in remote areas without internet); (3) SWAYAM MOOCs: Free online courses for higher education (1,000+ courses, 10 crore+ enrolled); (4) National Digital Library (NDL): Free access to 90 million+ digital books and research papers; (5) Radio: 'Shiksha Vaani' programme on All India Radio. PM e-VIDYA is free for all students — no registration required for DIKSHA content access.
RUSA 2.0 — Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan: State Universities & Colleges Infrastructure Grants | education.gov.in
Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA) is a centrally sponsored scheme for reforming, developing, and improving the quality and equity of higher education in state universities and colleges. RUSA Phase 2.0 (2018-2026) builds on Phase 1 (2013-17) with enhanced emphasis on multidisciplinary education, research, vocational integration, and equity-focused infrastructure. The scheme provides grants directly to state universities and affiliated colleges for: new academic buildings, laboratories, libraries, hostels, digital infrastructure, teacher training, curriculum reform, and autonomous college upgradation. Grant structure: New model colleges in Educationally Backward Districts (EBDs): ₹12.5 crore each; Professional education in non-professional colleges: ₹5 crore; Infrastructure for gender equity (women's hostels/toilets): ₹2 crore; Technical education quality improvement: varies. RUSA focuses on 2 equity goals: expansion into EBDs (35% of India's districts with GER below national average) and enhanced access for women/SC/ST students.
NMMSS 2026 — National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship: ₹12,000/Year for Class 9-12 Meritorious Students | scholarships.gov.in
National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) is a centrally sponsored scholarship scheme implemented by the Department of School Education & Literacy to prevent dropout of meritorious students from Classes 9-12 due to financial constraints. The scheme awards ₹12,000 per year (₹1,000/month) to selected students from Class 9 (fresh selection) and renews for Classes 10, 11, and 12 subject to performance. Selection criteria: (1) Parent/guardian annual income ≤ ₹3.5 lakh; (2) Must have scored minimum 55% marks in Class 7 final exam (50% for SC/ST); (3) Must be studying in government/government-aided school (NOT private unaided schools). Selection test: State-level NMMS examination (2 papers — MAT: Mental Ability Test + SAT: Scholastic Aptitude Test), conducted annually by each state/UT. 1,00,000 scholarships awarded per year nationally (distributed state-wise by population). Scholarship continues through Class 12 with minimum 55% marks in Class 9/10/11 to renew.
Anusandhan NRF 2026 — National Research Foundation: ₹50,000 Crore for Science & Humanities Research | anrf.gov.in
Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), established through the Anusandhan National Research Foundation Act 2023, is India's apex body for funding, coordinating, and promoting research and innovation across all disciplines — science, technology, engineering, mathematics, humanities, and social sciences. ANRF was created to replace the SERB (Science and Engineering Research Board) and subsumes it. Budget: ₹50,000 crore over 5 years (2023-28), with 70% to be mobilized from industry/private sector and 30% from government (₹10,000 crore). Key focus: (1) Industry-academia collaborative research — 70% industry contribution ensures research is market-relevant; (2) Mission-mode national research in 7 priority sectors: Natural farming, clean energy, quantum, AI for agriculture, health, semiconductors, and climate; (3) Early career researcher grants; (4) Seed grants for new universities and colleges to start research. ANRF is chaired by PM and Governing Board has industry leaders — a shift from pure academic funding to industry-led R&D.
PMJVK 2026 — Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram: Minority Area Infrastructure & Education | minorityaffairs.gov.in
Pradhan Mantri Jan Vikas Karyakram (PMJVK) is a centrally sponsored infrastructure development programme for identified Minority Concentration Areas (MCAs) across India, replacing the earlier Multi-Sectoral Development Programme (MsDP). Implemented by the Ministry of Minority Affairs since 2018-19, PMJVK funds construction of schools, colleges, ITIs (vocational training centres), hostels, hospitals, drinking water/sanitation facilities, and community halls in districts and blocks with high concentration of minority communities (Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Parsis, Jains). 1,301 districts/blocks/clusters identified as MCAs. Budget: ₹3,340 crore over 2017-20 (ongoing). PMJVK funds are released to states/UTs for project execution by state government agencies. Priority sectors: Education (70% of funds), Livelihood (health, skill development), and basic infrastructure (sanitation, drinking water).
Naya Savera 2026 — Free Coaching for Competitive Exams for Minority Students | minorityaffairs.gov.in
Naya Savera (New Dawn) is a Ministry of Minority Affairs scheme providing FREE coaching to students from 6 notified minority communities for competitive examinations — UPSC Civil Services, SSC, Banking (IBPS/SBI PO), Railway (RRB), State PSC, entrance exams for professional courses (medical NEET, engineering JEE, law CLAT), and language proficiency tests. Coaching is provided through empanelled coaching institutes (both private commercial institutes and government training centres). Students from minority communities who cannot afford expensive coaching get sponsored coaching: Course fee paid directly to coaching institute by Ministry + Stipend to student (₹3,000/month for day scholars, ₹6,000/month for residential) + Free study material. Target: 1,00,000 students per year. States/UTs empanel coaching centres through open tender. Selection of students: Merit + minority community certification + income limit (family income ≤ ₹8 lakh/year).
APAAR 2026 — One Nation One Student ID: Lifetime Academic Bank of Credits for Students | abc.gov.in
APAAR (Automated Permanent Academic Account Registry) is India's 'One Nation One Student ID' initiative launched in 2023 by the Ministry of Education under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Every student from Class 1 to postdoctoral research gets a unique 12-digit APAAR ID (permanent for life), which serves as a unified digital identity for all academic records, certificates, and achievements. APAAR is linked to the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC) at abc.gov.in — a national digital registry where all academic credits, degree certificates, diplomas, and skill certifications are stored permanently and are verifiable by employers/universities. Key features: (1) Portable: Credits earned at any institution automatically appear in APAAR account; (2) Credit transfer: Move between universities without losing credits under NEP's flexible course structure; (3) Dropout protection: If a student drops out, credits are preserved — return anytime to complete degree; (4) Employer verification: Employers can instantly verify APAAR-linked certificates — eliminates fake degrees; (5) Linked to DigiLocker for document access.
Other Education Schemes (9)
School infrastructure · Teacher training · Adult literacy · Mid-Day Meal · Skill development
PM SHRI Schools Scheme 2026 — 14,500 Upgraded Schools | Smart Class + Career Counselling
PM SHRI (PM Schools for Rising India) is a centrally sponsored scheme that upgrades 14,500 government schools across India into modern, green, and smart schools. Each selected PM SHRI school gets ₹2 crore+ for smart classrooms, digital libraries, labs, career counselling, vocational education, and NEP 2020 implementation over 5 years.
Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) 2026 — 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs + Startup Support | aim.gov.in
Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), established in 2016 under NITI Aayog, is India's flagship initiative to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. Key programmes: Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) — Rs 20 lakh per school for STEM problem-solving in 10,000 schools; Atal Incubation Centres (AIC) — Rs 10 crore grant to set up startup incubators; Atal New India Challenges (ANIC) — grant up to Rs 1 crore for technology solutions to national problems; Atal Community Innovation Centres (ACIC) — innovation centres in Tier 2/3 cities. Over 10,000 ATLs operational.
PM VIDYA PRAVESH 2026 — 3-Month Play-Based School Readiness for Class 1 | Free Programme
PM VIDYA PRAVESH is a free 3-month school readiness module for children enrolling in Class 1 (age 6+), implemented under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. It bridges the gap between Anganwadi/ECCE and formal schooling. The programme uses play-based, activity-based learning covering foundational literacy (alphabets, rhymes) and numeracy (counting, shapes) without formal homework or examinations. Teachers are trained under NISHTHA FLN module. Implemented across all government and government-aided primary schools in India. Module materials available in all scheduled languages on DIKSHA platform.
PMGDISHA 2026 — Free Digital Literacy Training for 6 Crore Rural Indians | pmgdisha.in
Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA) is the largest digital literacy programme in the world — training 6 crore adults in 40% of rural households to be digitally literate. Free 20-hour training on smartphone use, internet, email, digital payments, government services, and online banking. After training, learners take a NIELIT exam — those who pass get a Digital Literacy certificate. Implemented through 5+ lakh Common Service Centres (CSCs). 6.39 crore registered, 5.93 crore trained, 4.62 crore certified as of 2024.
Seekho Aur Kamao 2026 — Free Skill Training for Minorities: 75% Placement with ₹3,000 Stipend | minorityaffairs.gov.in
Seekho Aur Kamao (Learn & Earn) is a skill development scheme implemented by the Ministry of Minority Affairs specifically for youth from 6 notified minority communities (Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Zoroastrians/Parsis, and Jains). Launched in 2013-14 and revised with enhanced features in 2022-23, the scheme provides: free market-oriented skill training (3-12 months duration) in modern trades (IT, hospitality, healthcare, construction, beauty & wellness, etc.) AND traditional/heritage crafts (chikankari, zardozi, rogan art, bidriware, etc.). Each trained youth receives ₹3,000/month stipend during training (DBT) + 75% mandatory placement (employers/self-employment). Training is conducted through empanelled Project Implementing Agencies (PIAs) — industry partners, NGOs, training institutes. Selection: Candidates selected on merit (AAY/BPL preference) from minority community.
PENCIL Platform 2026 — Platform for Effective Enforcement of No Child Labour: Report & Rehabilitate | pencil.gov.in
PENCIL (Platform for Effective Enforcement for No Child Labour) is an electronic platform launched in 2017 by the Ministry of Labour & Employment to eliminate child labour in India and rehabilitate rescued child labourers. PENCIL integrates all stakeholders — Central Government, State Governments, District administration, civil society, and public — through a single digital platform for: (1) Complaint registration about child labour (online/phone); (2) Tracking of rescued child labourers; (3) National Child Labour Project (NCLP) schools management — where rescued children aged 9-14 get bridge education, vocational training, and nutrition; (4) Real-time dashboard of child labour in districts across India. The Child and Adolescent Labour (Prohibition & Regulation) Act 1986 (amended 2016) prohibits employment of children below 14 in ALL occupations and employment of adolescents (14-18) in hazardous occupations. PENCIL enables citizens to report child labour and track action. Rescued children are admitted to NCLP Special Training Centres (STCs) for up to 2 years bridge education before mainstreaming into regular schools.
Deep Ocean Mission 2026 — India's Deep Sea Exploration: Samudrayaan Submersible & ₹4,077 Crore Budget | incois.ernet.in
India's Deep Ocean Mission (DOM) was approved by the Cabinet in June 2021 with a budget of ₹4,077 crore for 5 years (2021-26). It is India's first comprehensive ocean exploration mission, with the Ministry of Earth Sciences as the nodal ministry. Key objectives: (1) Samudrayaan — India's manned deep-sea submersible vehicle capable of diving to 6,000 metres depth, carrying 3 scientists, to explore and assess deep-sea resources (polymetallic nodules, cobalt, nickel, manganese, methane hydrates); (2) Deep Ocean Survey and Exploration of mineral resources in India's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ, 2.2 million sq km); (3) Ocean Climate Change Advisory Services; (4) Desalination technology research; (5) Advanced Marine Station for Ocean Biology research at Lakshadweep; (6) Deep-sea mining technology development. India aims to be the 6th nation (after USA, Russia, France, Japan, China) to have manned deep-sea exploration capability. Samudrayaan's first test dive was conducted in 2023-24.
National Quantum Mission 2026 — ₹6,003 Crore for Quantum Computing, Sensing & Communication | dst.gov.in
India's National Quantum Mission (NQM) was approved by the Union Cabinet in April 2023 with a budget of ₹6,003 crore for 8 years (2023-31). India becomes the 7th country (after USA, China, UK, EU, Canada, Japan) to launch a dedicated national quantum mission. Ministry of Science & Technology implements NQM through the Department of Science & Technology (DST). Mission targets: (1) Quantum Computers: 50-100 physical qubits by 2026, 50-100 logical qubits by 2031 — competing with IBM, Google; (2) Quantum Communication: Secure quantum key distribution (QKD) over 2,000 km optical fibre (India-wide secure quantum network by 2031) + satellite-based QKD; (3) Quantum Sensing: Atomic clocks, gravimeters, seismometers with quantum precision (GPS-independent navigation, better earthquake detection); (4) Quantum Materials: New quantum materials and devices. Four T-Hubs (Thematic Hubs) created at IIT-Bombay, IIT-Delhi, IIT-Madras, and IISc Bangalore to lead the 4 mission verticals.
Bhashini 2026 — Digital India Language AI Platform: Free Translation & Speech in 22 Languages | bhashini.gov.in
Bhashini (Digital India Bhasha Innovation Initiative) is a national public digital platform for AI-powered language technology in India's 22 scheduled languages. Launched in 2022 by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Bhashini provides free open APIs for: (1) Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR) — speech-to-text in all 22 Indian languages; (2) Text-to-Speech (TTS) — natural-sounding voice in 22 languages; (3) Machine Translation — translate between any of 22 Indian languages instantly; (4) Transliteration — convert text between scripts (e.g., Hindi in Roman → Devanagari). Bhashini's mission: Ensure government digital services are accessible to citizens in their own language — bridging the digital divide for the 1 billion Indians who do not speak English. Bhashini powers: PM-WANI (Wi-Fi) interface in regional languages, Common Service Centre services in 22 languages, DigiLocker in local languages, UMANG app in 13 languages, and 100+ government apps. Developers can use Bhashini APIs for FREE to build Indian-language applications.
About Students Schemes & Education Schemes in India 2026
The Government of India runs over 47 dedicated students schemes at the central level — covering scholarships (PMRF, AICTE Saksham, Yashasvi, Pragati, MAEF, Begum Hazrat Mahal), research fellowships (CSIR-JRF, DBT-JRF, ICMR-JRF, MANF, NFSC, NFST, IG Single Girl Child Fellowship), education loan interest subsidies (CSIS, Padho Pardesh), residential school admissions (Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Sainik School, Eklavya Model Residential Schools — EMRS), free UPSC/NEET/JEE coaching for SC/ST/OBC students, open school scholarships (NIOS), and special schemes for J&K students (PMSSS), Defence personnel children (PMSS), and foreign nationals studying in India (ICCR). All students schemes can be applied online through the National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in) or scheme-specific government portals listed on each scheme page. Plus an additional 9 other education schemes cover school infrastructure, teacher training, adult literacy, and skill development programmes.