The Pragati Scholarship is an initiative by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) aimed at empowering meritorious female students by providing financial assistance for higher education in technical fields. This scheme encourages girls to pursue technical and professional courses, thereby promoting gender equality in education and workforce participation.
This scholarship is available for female students pursuing a diploma or degree course in AICTE-approved institutions. A total of 5,000 scholarships are awarded annually for degree courses, and 2,000 scholarships for diploma courses. Each selected student receives ₹50,000 per year for a maximum of four years for degree programs and three years for diploma courses. The amount covers tuition fees, purchase of books, and other academic expenses.
To be eligible, the applicant must be a female student admitted to the first year of a technical degree/diploma course in an AICTE-approved institution. The annual family income should not exceed ₹8 lakh, and up to two girls per family can apply. Selection is based on merit, considering the qualifying examination marks. The scholarship funds are disbursed directly to the beneficiary’s bank account through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.
Students can apply through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) (scholarships.gov.in), where they must register, fill out the application form, and upload necessary documents such as Aadhaar card, income certificate, admission proof, and bank details.
The AICTE Pragati Scholarship plays a crucial role in encouraging female participation in technical education, ensuring financial support, and helping young women build successful careers in engineering, technology, and other professional fields. By bridging gender gaps in higher education, this scholarship empowers women to contribute to India’s technological and economic growth.
