SAK-DEG

AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree)

5.9/10

Saksham is a Scholarship Scheme by the Ministry of Education, implemented by AICTE, aimed at providing encouragement and support to specially-abled children to pursue technical education. This is an attempt to give every young specially-abled student the opportunity to study further.

Central Cash

States / UT: All India

Ministry / nodal: Ministry of Education

Nodal department: Department of Human Resource and Development

Scheme for: Individual

Scheme profile

DBT (direct benefit transfer): Yes

Scheme open date: 2014-11-01

Categories: Education & Learning

Sub-categories: Scholarships and student finance

Target beneficiaries: Individual

Tags: Scholarship, PwD, Technical Education, Young Student

Details

Saksham is a Scholarship Scheme by the Ministry of Education, implemented by AICTE, aimed at providing encouragement and support to specially-abled children to pursue technical education. This is an attempt to give every young student, who is otherwise specially abled, the opportunity to study further and prepare for a successful future through technical education/ knowledge. ₹50,000/- per annum for every year of study i.e. maximum 4 years for the first year admitted students and maximum 3 years for the second year admitted students through lateral entry as lump sum amount towards payment of college fee, purchase of computer, stationeries, books, equipment, software, etc. The candidate should be admitted to the First year of the Degree level course OR the Second year of the Degree level course through lateral entry in any of the AICTE-approved institutions of the respective year. Family income from all sources should not be more than Rs. 8 lakh per annum during the current financial year.

Benefits

  • 1. ₹50 000/- per annum for every year of study i.e. maximum 4 years for the first year admitted students and maximum 3 years for the second year admitted students through lateral entry as lump sum amount towards payment of college fee purchase of computer stationeries books equipment software etc. 1. After selection the awardee will be paid a scholarship through DBT mode on annual basis. 1. The scholarship will be renewed for the next year of study on receipt of renewal through National Scholarship Portal by submitting a passing certificate/ mark sheet along with letter from the Head of the Institution on the online portal
  1. ₹50,000/- per annum for every year of study i.e. maximum 4 years for the first year admitted students and maximum 3 years for the second year admitted students through lateral entry as lump sum amount towards payment of college fee, purchase of computer, stationeries, books, equipment, software, etc.
  2. After selection, the awardee will be paid a scholarship through DBT mode on annual basis.
  3. The scholarship will be renewed for the next year of study on receipt of renewal through National Scholarship Portal by submitting a passing certificate/ mark sheet along with letter from the Head of the Institution on the online portal

Eligibility

  1. The candidate should be admitted to the first year of the degree-level course or the second year of the degree-level course through lateral entry in any of the AICTE-approved institutions of the respective year.
  2. Specially-abled students have a disability of not less than 40%.
  3. Family income from all sources should not be more than ₹8,00,000/- per annum during the current financial year. A valid income certificate issued by the state/UT government needs to be enclosed.

Exclusions

  1. Students failing to get promoted to the next class/ level would forfeit the scholarship.
  2. The gap period between the year of passing the qualifying examination and the session of admission in the degree course should not be more than two years.
  3. If a candidate failed/drops out in a subsequent year, she/ he will not be eligible for further scholarship.
  4. The grant of scholarship is subject to the condition that the student does not receive any financial assistance in the shape of scholarship/any emoluments, salary, stipend, etc. from any other source during her/ his course of study in the Institute. In case of receipt of any financial assistance from any other sources, the scholarship shall be discontinued and the entire amount of the scholarship will have to be refunded to AICTE by D/Draft drawn in favor of “Member Secretary, AICTE” payable at New Delhi.



How useful is this scheme?

Public benefit analysis

A practical look at this scheme for citizens

AI-generated insights showing how useful, accessible, and practical this scheme may be — combining deterministic scoring rules with a public-policy LLM analyst.

5.9
/ 10
Public Benefit Score
Accessibility 5.0/10 Moderate
Rural usefulness 4.0/10 Moderate
Application complexity 6.5/10 Moderate
Financial impact 8.0/10 Good
Literacy barrier 6.0/10 Moderate
Women inclusivity 6.0/10 Moderate
Awareness 7.5/10 Good
Implementation reliability 7.0/10 Good
Bigger shape means a better fit for citizens
  • Accessibility5.0
  • Financial impact8.0
  • Rural utility4.0
  • Awareness7.5
  • Simplicity3.5
  • Inclusivity6.0

What problem does this scheme solve?

The scheme provides financial support for specially-abled students pursuing technical education, enhancing their opportunities for higher education.

Key challenges addressed

  • Financial assistance for specially-abled students
  • Encouragement for technical education

Most beneficial for

  • Specially-abled students
  • Low-income families

Likely challenges

  • Digital literacy requirements
  • Awareness of the scheme

Practical insights for citizens

While the scheme is beneficial, practical challenges in application and awareness may hinder access for some beneficiaries.

Rural challenges

  • Limited internet access
  • Lack of awareness about the scheme

Digital challenges

  • Dependence on digital platforms for application
  • Need for Aadhaar for application

Implementation bottlenecks

  • Verification delays
  • Awareness of eligibility criteria

Awareness challenges

  • Low awareness in rural areas
  • Limited outreach programs

Application analysis

Application mode
Online portal
Documents burden
Minimal, requires income certificate and disability certificate
Verification complexity
Moderate, involves multiple levels of verification
Office dependency
Low, primarily online
DBT dependency
High, payment through Direct Benefit Transfer
CSC support
Limited, primarily online application
Estimated citizen effort
Moderate, requires understanding of online processes

Estimated beneficiary reach

  • Rural / urban reach Moderate
  • Gender reach All genders
  • Target income group Low-income families (income < ₹8 lakh)
  • Occupation reach Students in technical education

Benefit analysis

Benefit type
Cash
Benefit frequency
Annual
Benefit practicality
Practical for covering educational expenses
Financial meaningfulness
Moderately meaningful for low-income families
Long-term impact
Positive impact on educational opportunities for specially-abled students

Plain-language guidance

The Saksham Scholarship helps specially-abled students get financial support for technical education. Eligible students can receive ₹50,000 per year for up to four years.

Who should apply
Specially-abled students enrolled in technical degree courses.
Who may struggle
Students with limited digital skills or access to the internet.
Best application route
Apply online through the National Scholarships Portal with Aadhaar.

This intelligence section is generated by an AI policy analyst combined with rule-based scoring. Scores and narrative are estimates derived from the publicly available scheme information shown on this page; actual experience may vary by state, district, and department. Always confirm details on the official portal before you apply.

Application Process

Online

New Registration:

Step 1: Visit the New Registration page of the National Scholarships Portal.
Step 2: Guidelines for Registration will appear. Scroll to the bottom. Read the undertaking carefully and Accept the Terms. Click “Next”.
Step 3: In the next window, enter your mobile number and OTP. Then click “Verify”.
Step 4: After successful verification, continue with e-KYC process (as applicable).
Step 5: Once completed, your reference number will be generated and the same will be sent to your registered phone number.

Process for OTR ID Number Generation:

Step 1: Download and install AadhaarFaceRD services in the android device.
Step 2: Download and install the NSP OTR App from the Google Play Store.
Step 3: After opening the mobile app Select the option “eKYC with FaceAuth” highlighted in red.
Step 4: Enter the allotted reference number and click on “Send OTP” to receive OTP on your mobile no.
Step 5: Enter the received OTP and captcha in the screen and click Next.
Step 6: Click on “Proceed for Face Authentication” button highlighted in red.
Step 7: UIDAI AadhaarFaceRD services will be invoked for face authentication. Ensure AadhaarFaceRD services are preinstalled on your device.
Step 8: On Successful completion of face-authentication OTR no. will be generated and will also be sent on your registered mobile no.

Fresh Application:

Step 1: Visit the applicant Login page of the National Scholarships Portal Enter your One Time Registration (OTR) number and password.
Step 2: Type the Captcha and click “Login”.
Step 3: On the next screen, provide the OTP received on your registered mobile number. You will be directed to the Password Reset screen. Create a new password and confirm.
Step 4: Click “Submit”. You will be directed to the “Applicant’s Dashboard”.
Step 5: On the left pane, click “Application Form”. The fields marked as * are compulsory. Fill in the details and upload the documents.
Step 6: You can either click on “Save as Draft” to complete the application later. Else, click “Final Submit” to submit the application.

Track Payment Status:

The student can track their payment status from the template “Know Your Payment” in the Public Financial Management System (PFMS) Portal either by indicating their Aadhaar Number, Bank Account number or NSP Application ID.
NOTE 1: The National Scholarships Portal will provide the timelines for opening & closing of the portal.
NOTE 2: Online applications will be verified at two levels i.e. by the Institute, where the student is studying and thereafter by the concerned State Higher Education Department or any other Agency/ Official nominated by the State as State Nodal Agency (both for fresh and renewal applicants).
NOTE 3: Students will not be permanently debarred for scholarships due to delay in renewal or verification. However, students will have to submit renewal applications within a cut-off date. Renewal for that year will not be allowed if an applicant misses this deadline.

Clarifications

Additional points from the scheme information published on myScheme (not legal advice).

I Am Studying In 3rd Year Of Diploma/ Degree Course. Will I Get Saksham Scholarship?

No, you are not eligible.

I Am Degree/Diploma Student And Recipient Of One Of The Merit Scholarships Of Centre / State Government. Am I Eligible To Apply For SAKSHAM Scholarship?

No, Students who are already in receipt of any of the scholarships (Central Govt. / State Govt. / AICTE Sponsored), are not eligible to apply for SAKSHAM Scholarship.

I Am First Year B.E Student Along With Beneficiary Of PMSSS Scheme Studying In One Of The Leading Engineering College Having Eligibility For SAKSHAM Scholarship. Am I Eligible To Apply For SAKSHAM Scholarship?

No, you are not eligible, since you are already in receipt of one of the Scholarships of Government of India.

What Is The Mode Of Disbursement Of Scholarship?

Scholarship will be disbursed only through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) in the bank account of the student by AICTE. Student must have General Saving Account in his / her name (FRILL/Minor/Joint account will not be accepted).

Is AADHAAR Card A Mandatory Document For SAKSHAM Scholarship?

Yes, Aadhaar card and Aadhaar seeded bank account in the name of candidate is mandatory for submitting online application under SAKSHAM scheme.

Is There Any E-Mail (Or) Helpline No. For SAKSHAM Scholarship Queries?

Yes, you can avail helpline services on saksham@aicte-india.org & 011-29581118 for any query

Whom To Contact In Case Of Any Difficulties In Accessing The Portal For Submitting Online Application?

You can avail Helpdesk Service on helpdesk@nsp.gov.in for any query.

What Are The Reasons Of Direct Rejection Of Application Under SAKSHAM Scheme?

Followings may be the reasons: * Student is admitted in Non-Technical courses or Course is not approved by AICTE in the current academic year. * University / Institute is not approved by the AICTE in the current academic year. * Incomplete/Wrong information filled in submitted application. Page 3 of 6 * Student admitted in duel degree courses. * Student is availing scholarship from any other sources. * Student admitted in Post-graduate courses. * Disability Certificate is not enclosed / Not issued by Competent Authority.

What Are The Reasons Of Rejection Of Annual Family Income Certificate?

Followings may be the reasons: * Annual family income certificate of current year is not submitted. * Annual family income certificate is not in the name of applicant or any his/her family member. * Submitted Annual family income certificate issued by other than competent authority (Tehshildar, Magistrate, Revenue officer/Block Development officer etc.). * Annual family income certificate submitted without signature/stamp of the competent authority.

What Are The Reasons Of Rejection Of Promotion Certificate?

Followings may be the reasons * Incomplete or blank promotion certificate submitted. * Promotion certificate submitted without college's stamp or signature of the Principal / Director.

What Are The Reasons Of Rejection Of HSC/SSC Certificate?

Followings may be the reasons: * Copy of HSC/SSC certificate is blurred. * Copy of HSC/SSC certificate is not accessible. * Copy of HSC/SSC is not in the name of applicant. * Irrelevant Document attached in place of HSC/SSC.

References

Guidelines (AY 2021-22)
https://www.aicte-india.org/sites/default/files/stdc/AICTE%20Saksham%20Scheme%20Guidelines_Degree.pdf
FAQs And Forms
https://www.aicte-india.org/sites/default/files/stdc/FAQs-Saksham%20Scheme.pdf

Apply

Apply now

Opens the official application or programme portal in a new tab. If in doubt, confirm details on the ministry site.

Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree)?
AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree) is a government welfare initiative designed to support Individual, Individual through benefits related to Education & Learning, financial assistance, subsidies, social welfare, healthcare, education, or livelihood support.
Who can apply for AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree)?
Eligibility for AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree) may depend on factors such as income category, age, gender, occupation, state of residence, social category, and government-defined beneficiary criteria.
What benefits are offered under AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree)?
Benefits under AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree) may include financial assistance, subsidies, scholarships, insurance support, healthcare benefits, pension support, training assistance, or welfare services depending on the scheme guidelines.
Which department manages AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree)?
AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree) is managed by Department of Human Resource and Development and may be implemented through district offices, online portals, CSC centres, banks, or authorised government agencies.
Can users apply online for AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree)?
Yes, eligible applicants may be able to apply online for AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree) through official government portals, authorised service centres, or digital application systems depending on the implementation process.
Is Aadhaar mandatory for AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree)?
Many government schemes may require Aadhaar verification, identity proof, or linked bank account details for beneficiary validation and direct benefit transfer processing.
Where can users apply for AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree)?
Applications for AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree) may be submitted through government departments, official scheme portals, CSC centres, district offices, welfare departments, or authorised service centres.
What documents may be required for AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree)?
Applicants may need Aadhaar card, income certificate, residence proof, bank account details, caste certificate, photographs, educational records, or occupation-related documents depending on scheme eligibility requirements.
Is income certificate required for AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree)?
Income certificate requirements may vary depending on beneficiary category, subsidy eligibility, and financial assistance criteria defined under AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree).
Is AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree) a central government scheme?
Yes, AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree) is a central government welfare initiative that may be implemented across multiple states through authorised departments and agencies.
Can students apply for AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree)?
Eligible students studying in recognised institutions may apply for AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree) depending on educational qualification, category, income limit, and academic eligibility.
Is scholarship amount provided under AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree)?
AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree) may provide scholarship assistance, tuition support, educational reimbursement, or financial aid for eligible students.
Can CSC centres help users apply for AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree)?
Many government schemes may be accessible through nearby CSC centres, authorised digital service centres, or welfare facilitation offices.
How can users check the latest updates for AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree)?
Users should verify official notifications, department announcements, application deadlines, and eligibility updates through authorised government portals or implementing agencies.
Are there deadlines for applying to AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree)?
Some schemes may operate through fixed application windows, annual registration cycles, or department-specific deadlines depending on scheme implementation policies.
Can beneficiaries track application status for AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree)?
Certain schemes may provide online application tracking, beneficiary verification systems, or status-check facilities through official portals.
Where can users get help for AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree) in All India?
Users in All India may seek assistance through CSC centres, district welfare offices, government departments, agriculture offices, social welfare departments, or authorised facilitation centres.
Which nearby public services may help with AICTE – Saksham Scholarship Scheme For Specially-Abled Student (Degree) applications?
Depending on the scheme, users may require support from Aadhaar centres, CSC centres, banks, hospitals, post offices, or government welfare offices for document verification and application assistance.