The Saksham Scholarship is a special initiative by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) aimed at supporting differently-abled students in pursuing technical education. This scheme provides financial assistance to students with disabilities to help them complete their higher education in AICTE-approved technical institutions and build successful careers.
Under this scholarship, 1,000 students are selected annually for degree courses and diploma courses. Each beneficiary receives ₹50,000 per year for a maximum of four years for degree programs and three years for diploma courses. The scholarship covers tuition fees, purchase of books, and other academic expenses. However, it does not include hostel or transport fees.
To be eligible, the applicant must have at least 40% disability and should be admitted to the first year of a degree or diploma course in an AICTE-approved institution. The annual family income should not exceed ₹8 lakh, and selection is based on merit in the qualifying examination. The scholarship amount is directly credited to the student’s bank account through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.
Students can apply for the Saksham Scholarship through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) (scholarships.gov.in) by filling out the online application and submitting necessary documents, including an Aadhaar card, disability certificate, income certificate, admission proof, and bank details.
This scholarship plays a vital role in empowering students with disabilities, providing them with equal opportunities to pursue technical education, gain financial independence, and contribute meaningfully to society. Through the AICTE Saksham Scholarship, the government ensures that physical challenges do not become barriers to academic and professional success.