Karnataka Government has introduced several welfare schemes and services to support the educational and socio-economic upliftment of students belonging to Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Minorities, and Backward Classes. These initiatives are designed to provide financial assistance, skill development, and career opportunities for the marginalized communities across the state.
In this article, we will guide you through the available schemes, eligibility criteria, required documents, and step-by-step instructions on how to apply online.
✅ Key Objectives of the Schemes
- Promote education among SC/ST/Minority/Backward Class students.
- Reduce dropout rates in schools and colleges.
- Provide financial support for higher education, skill training, and professional courses.
- Bridge the socio-economic gap through inclusive development.
- Enable self-employment and job readiness.
🎓 Major Schemes Available for SC/ST/Minority/Backward Class Students
1. Post-Matric Scholarship (PMS)
- Eligibility: SC/ST/OBC/Minority students studying beyond Class 10.
- Income Limit:
- SC/ST: Less than ₹2.5 lakh/year
- OBC/Minority: Less than ₹1 lakh/year
- Benefits: Tuition fee reimbursement, maintenance allowance, and exam fee coverage.
2. Pre-Matric Scholarship
- Eligibility: Students from Class 1 to 10 belonging to SC/ST/Minority categories.
- Income Limit:
- SC/ST: ₹2.5 lakh/year
- Minorities: ₹1 lakh/year
- Benefits: Monthly stipend and reimbursement of school fees and uniform charges.
3. Vidya Siri Scheme
- Eligibility: Backward class and minority students pursuing professional/higher education.
- Benefits: Free hostel facility and food allowance.
4. Overseas Education Scheme
- Eligibility: SC/ST/Minority students who wish to pursue post-graduation or doctoral studies abroad.
- Benefits: Scholarship of up to ₹20–30 lakh for tuition, travel, and living expenses.
5. Ganga Kalyana Scheme (for SC/ST/BC farmers’ children)
- Eligibility: Children of farmers from target communities.
- Benefits: Free borewell drilling and irrigation support (indirectly supports students through family income).
📋 Documents Required
To apply for any scheme, students typically need the following documents:
- Aadhaar Card
- Caste Certificate
- Income Certificate (current year)
- Bonafide Certificate or Admission Proof
- Bank Passbook (linked with Aadhaar)
- Passport-size photographs
- SSLC/PUC/Previous year marks card
- Ration Card (if applicable)
🧾 Step-by-Step Process to Apply Online
Step 1: Visit the Official Portal
Go to the official website of the respective department:
🔗 https://ssp.postmatric.karnataka.gov.in
Step 2: Student Registration
- Click on “Create Account”
- Enter your Aadhaar Number and verify with OTP.
- Fill in the basic details and submit.
Step 3: Select Scheme & Fill Application
- Log in to the State Scholarship Portal (SSP).
- Choose the scheme applicable to you (e.g., Post-Matric for SC/ST).
- Fill out the application form carefully.
- Upload all required documents.
Step 4: Final Submission & Tracking
- Submit the application.
- Note down your Application Reference Number.
- You can track your application status on the dashboard.
📞 Helpline and Contact Details
- SSP Karnataka Helpline: 080-35254757
- Email: helpdesk@ssp.karnataka.gov.in
- Working Hours: 10 AM – 5 PM (Monday to Saturday)
📝 Important Tips
- Always use the same mobile number and email ID for future correspondence.
- Ensure your Aadhaar is linked with your bank account.
- Double-check your caste and income certificates for validity.
- Apply before the deadline to avoid rejection.
📅 Application Timeline
Most of these schemes open between June to October every academic year. Keep checking the SSP portal or your college notice board for the latest updates.
🔚 Conclusion
The Government of Karnataka is committed to empowering SC, ST, Minority, and Backward Class students through a range of beneficial schemes. By leveraging these services, students can pursue education without financial burden, gain access to better career opportunities, and contribute to a more inclusive society.
Don’t miss your chance to benefit from these schemes—apply online today and take the first step toward a brighter future.