The Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme is a significant initiative by the Government of India to support the educational aspirations of the wards and widows of Central Police Force (CPF) personnel below officer rank. Recognizing the challenging service conditions of these personnel, the scheme aims to encourage higher technical and professional education by providing financial assistance.
Background and Need
Service conditions in the Central Police Forces often keep personnel away from their families for extended periods. This can lead to neglect of family matters, including the education of children. The Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme was introduced in the academic year 2006-07 to address this issue, and has been revised for the academic year 2008-09 onwards. This scheme is a testament to the government’s commitment to the welfare of the families of those who serve in the CPMFs.
Scholarship Details
The Prime Minister has announced 5000 scholarships for the wards of ex-servicemen and widows of army personnel and paramilitary forces, including the Railway Protection Force (RPF). These scholarships are intended for pursuing advanced education in fields like Medical, Engineering, IT, and other technical subjects. The funding is sourced from the interest income generated out of the National Defence Fund.
Out of the total 5000 scholarships, 1000 are allocated to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and Railways, with 910 scholarships for CPFs controlled by MHA and 90 for RPF controlled by the Ministry of Railways.
Eligibility Criteria
The following individuals are eligible for the scholarship:
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Wards and widows of CPF personnel who died in the line of duty.
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Wards of ex-CPF personnel who were disabled while on duty.
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Wards of ex-CPF personnel who received Gallantry Awards.
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Wards and widows of ex-CPF/in-service personnel (below officer rank), up to the rank of Subedar Major/Inspector.
Order of Preference
If the number of applications exceeds the available scholarships, the order of preference is as follows:
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Wards/Widows of CPFs personnel killed in action.
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Wards of ex-CPFs personnel disabled in action.
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Wards of ex-CPFs personnel in receipt of Gallantry Awards.
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Wards/Widows of CPFs personnel who died in harness.
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Wards of ex-CPFs personnel disabled while in service with a disability attributable to Govt. service.
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Wards of ex-CPFs personnel (PBOR)
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Wards of in-service personnel (PBOR) subject to availability of scholarship on merit basis.
Eligible Courses
The scholarship is available for first professional degree programs in engineering, medicine, dental, veterinary, MBA, MCA, and other technical subjects recognized by relevant government regulatory bodies.
Academic Requirements
To be eligible for the scholarship, candidates must have secured at least 60% marks at the 10+2 level for initial sanction. For renewal in subsequent years, 50% marks each year is mandatory.
Scholarship Amount
The scholarship amount is:
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Rs. 1250 per month for boys
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Rs. 1500 per month for girls
Application Process
The application process involves the following steps:
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All CPMFs circulate instructions to their field formations and call for applications by November 30th of each year.
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After initial scrutiny, applications of selected candidates are sent to the Welfare and Rehabilitation Board (WARB) by December 15th.
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The WARB prepares a final list of selected candidates and sends it to the MHA by December 31st.
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Selected applicants are informed directly by the WARB, CPFs, and MHA.
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Two self-addressed stamped envelopes must be submitted with the application.
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All wards applying for the scholarship must open individual bank accounts.
General Instructions
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The scheme is open for widows and unmarried wards, but marriage/remarriage does not disqualify a person.
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The scholarship is limited to two children per family.
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False statements in the application will lead to forfeiture and refund of the scholarship.
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Attested photocopies of supporting documents are required.
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The decision of Joint Secretary (Police) regarding the admissibility of the scholarship is final.
Conclusion
The Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme is a significant initiative that provides crucial financial support to the families of Central Police Force personnel. By encouraging higher education, the scheme empowers the wards and widows of these personnel, helping them achieve their educational goals and build a better future. This scheme underscores the government’s commitment to supporting those who serve in the nation’s security forces.