The Andaman and Nicobar Administration runs various schemes to support students pursuing higher education outside the islands. One of these important initiatives is the “Hostel Reimbursement of Cash in Lieu of Mess Bill/Stipend”. This article offers a detailed explanation of this scheme, eligibility, required documents, and how to apply.
✅ What is Hostel Reimbursement of Cash in Lieu of Mess Bill/Stipend?
This scheme provides financial assistance to students from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands who are studying on the mainland and are staying in hostels or paying guest accommodations. Since many students move to cities where they have to bear extra expenses for food and accommodation, the administration offers reimbursement for mess bills or a stipend in lieu of hostel facilities.
It aims to reduce the financial burden and encourage higher education among the island population.
🎯 Objectives of the Scheme
- To support meritorious and eligible students from Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- To provide reimbursement for mess charges or offer a stipend for food/accommodation.
- To ensure students can afford quality education without financial hindrance.
👩🎓 Who is Eligible?
The scheme is open to students who fulfill the following criteria:
- Domicile Requirement: Applicant must be a resident of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- Course Requirement: Must be studying a recognized full-time course outside the islands.
- Accommodation Proof: Must be residing in a hostel or PG, or making arrangements for food separately (for those not availing hostel mess).
- Academic Institution Recognition: The college or university must be recognized by UGC/AICTE/State Government.
- Income Criteria: While not always mandatory, preference may be given to students from economically weaker sections.
- Regular Attendance: Students must maintain a good attendance record and academic performance.
📑 Documents Required
To apply for the reimbursement, students typically need to submit the following:
- Application Form (available from the Education Department or District Office).
- Residential Certificate (from Tehsildar or SDM).
- Admission Proof from college/institution.
- Fee Receipt of the hostel/mess or PG accommodation.
- Bank Passbook Copy (student’s name and account number).
- Academic Progress Report / Marksheet.
- Attendance Certificate (issued by the institution).
- Aadhaar Card Copy.
- Income Certificate (if applicable).
💸 Amount and Mode of Reimbursement
The reimbursement amount can vary depending on the actual expenditure and government-approved rates. Typically, it includes:
- Monthly Mess Charges or
- Fixed Stipend in case mess bills are not available
👉 The amount is credited directly to the student’s bank account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode.
📝 How to Apply?
Step-by-Step Process:
- Collect the application form from the Education Department office or download it from the official A&N Administration website (if available).
- Fill in all details correctly and attach the required documents.
- Submit the application to the Deputy Commissioner’s Office / Directorate of Education.
- Once verified, the amount will be processed and disbursed to your bank account.
Note: Students must apply every academic year and submit fresh hostel/mess receipts and academic progress reports.
⏳ Important Timelines
- Application Start: Generally begins in the first quarter of the academic year (around July–August).
- Last Date: Usually by October–November, but students should check local notices for deadlines.
🛑 Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting incomplete applications
- Failing to provide authentic accommodation proof
- Delayed submission of academic performance reports
- Not updating bank details
📌 Why This Scheme Matters
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are geographically isolated, and higher education facilities are limited. This scheme helps bridge the gap by making mainland education more accessible to island students.
By covering a portion of hostel and food expenses, the administration ensures no deserving student is left behind due to financial issues.
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📞 Contact Details for Assistance
Directorate of Education,
Andaman and Nicobar Administration
Port Blair, A&N Islands – 744101
📧 Email: education@and.nic.in
📞 Phone: +91-3192-232713