MCMS-UGSVB-AASS

Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects

5.7/10

The scheme of "Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects" was introduced by ICAR with a view to attracting meritorious undergraduate students to prosecute their studies up to graduation level.

Central Cash

States / UT: All India

Ministry / nodal: Ministry Of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare

Nodal department: Department of Agriculture Research and Education

Scheme for: Individual

Scheme profile

DBT (direct benefit transfer): Yes

Scheme open date: 2007-04-01

Categories: Education & Learning

Sub-categories: Scholarships and student finance

Target beneficiaries: Individual

Tags: Scholarship, Student, Agriculture, Financial

Details

The "Merit-cum-Means Scholarships for Undergraduate Studies in Agriculture and Animal Science" is a prestigious scheme introduced by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE). The objective of this scholarship is to attract meritorious students to pursue undergraduate studies in Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering, Home Science, Dairy, and Animal Husbandry.

The scholarship is awarded annually based on merit-cum-means criteria. To be eligible, students must meet the 'Means Test' condition and secure at least 60% marks or equivalent grade points in the qualifying examination. Each selected student will receive ₹1,000 per month, and the scholarship will be tenable for the entire duration of the degree course in the relevant subject.



Benefits

  • The value of the scholarships for undergraduate studies in Agriculture (including Agricultural Engineering & Home Science) and Animal Science subjects will be ₹1,000/- per month per student. The scholarship will be tenable for the full duration of the degree course in the concerned subject

The value of the scholarships for undergraduate studies in Agriculture (including Agricultural Engineering & Home Science) and Animal Science subjects will be ₹ 1,000/- per month per student. The scholarship will be tenable for the full duration of the degree course in the concerned subject.

Eligibility

  1. The applicant should have domiciled in India.
  2. The applicant should be a student who meets the Means Test condition as defined in the scheme guidelines.
  3. The applicant should have secured at least 60% marks or equivalent grade points in the qualifying examination.
  4. The applicant should be considered on inter-se merit in case of a tie, with preference given to those with higher marks in science subjects.
  5. The applicant should pursue undergraduate studies in Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering, Home Science, Dairy, or Animal Husbandry.

MEANS TEST

  1. The applicant should be from a family whose parents' annual income does not exceed ₹1,00,000 to be eligible for the scholarship.
  2. The applicant should note that there is no provision for a half scholarship under this scheme.
  3. The applicant should be aware that if their parents' income exceeds ₹1,00,000 per annum, they will not be eligible for the scholarship but may receive a national prize of ₹500 and a certificate of merit.

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.

5.7
/ 10
Public Benefit Score
Accessibility 5.0/10 Moderate
Rural usefulness 6.0/10 Moderate
Application complexity 5.0/10 Moderate
Financial impact 4.0/10 Moderate
Literacy barrier 2.0/10 Good
Women inclusivity 8.0/10 Good
Awareness 7.5/10 Good
Implementation reliability 7.0/10 Good
Bigger shape means a better fit for citizens
  • Accessibility5.0
  • Financial impact4.0
  • Rural utility6.0
  • Awareness7.5
  • Simplicity5.0
  • Inclusivity8.0

What problem does this scheme solve?

The scheme provides financial support to meritorious students pursuing undergraduate studies in agriculture and animal science, promoting education in these fields.

Key challenges addressed

  • Financial barrier to education in agriculture and animal science
  • Encouragement for students from low-income families to pursue higher education

Most beneficial for

  • Students from low-income families
  • Meritorious students in agriculture and animal science

Likely challenges

  • Complex application process for semi-literate citizens
  • Awareness about the scheme among potential beneficiaries

Practical insights for citizens

The scheme is practical but requires significant effort from applicants, particularly in rural areas.

Rural challenges

  • Limited access to information about the scheme
  • Difficulties in completing the application process

Implementation bottlenecks

  • Slow processing times for applications
  • Potential delays in disbursing funds

Awareness challenges

  • Low awareness among rural populations about eligibility and application process

Application analysis

Application mode
Offline office
Documents burden
Moderate, requires several documents
Verification complexity
Moderate, involves means testing
Office dependency
High, requires physical submission
DBT dependency
Low, cash benefit provided directly
CSC support
Limited, primarily offline
Estimated citizen effort
Moderate, requires multiple steps to complete application

Estimated beneficiary reach

  • Rural / urban reach Moderate
  • Gender reach Inclusive
  • Target income group Low-income families
  • Occupation reach Students in agriculture and related fields

Benefit analysis

Benefit type
Cash
Benefit frequency
Monthly
Benefit practicality
Moderate, provides essential support but may not cover all educational expenses
Financial meaningfulness
Moderate, ₹1,000 per month is helpful but may not be sufficient for all needs
Long-term impact
Positive, encourages higher education in agriculture and animal science fields

Plain-language guidance

This scholarship helps students from low-income families pay for their undergraduate studies in agriculture and animal science. To apply, students must meet certain academic and income criteria.

Who should apply
Students pursuing undergraduate degrees in agriculture and animal science with financial needs.
Who may struggle
Semi-literate individuals and those unfamiliar with the application process.
Best application route
Apply directly at your university or college by requesting the application form.

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

Offline

Step 1: The interested applicant should visit (during office hours) the University/College, and request the hard copy of the prescribed format of the application form from the concerned authority.
Step 2: In the application form, fill in all the mandatory fields, paste the passport-sized photograph (signed across, if required), and attach copies of all the mandatory documents (self-attest, if required).
Step 3: Submit the duly filled and signed application form along with the documents, within the prescribed period (if any), to the authority.
Step 4: Request a receipt or acknowledgement from the concerned authority to whom the application has been submitted. Ensure that the receipt contains essential details such as the date and time of submission, and a unique identification number (if applicable).
NOTE: Ensure that the application is submitted within the prescribed period, if any.

Proforma For Submission Of Demand: https://education.icar.gov.in/pdf/format-MCM-2017.pdf

Clarifications

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

What would happen in case the student is unable to Take Examination Due to Illness?

If a scholar is unable to appear for the annual examination within a continuous course of study owing to illness or is not allowed to appear in the examination owing to prolonged illness extending over a long period which has resulted in a shortage in the required attendance as per University regulations the scholarship may be renewed for the next year on the recommendation of the Head of the Institution who while making the recommendations will take into consideration the medical certificate submitted by the scholar and the fact that the progress of his study during the year was such that had he not become unable to sit for the examination he would have qualified in the examination obtaining 50% of the aggregate marks. ThIS conceSSIOn can be availed of by the scholar not more than once during the whole length of the course.

Is the Scholarship Admissible For Absence On Grounds Of Maternity?

For married women, the scholarship will be admissible at the full rate for upto three months for absence on grounds of maternity. No scholarship will be paid for a period exceeding three months due to absence on grounds of maternity.

How will the Payment of Scholarship be done in case of Leave?

(1) The scholarship will be admissible as follows if the absence is due to illness supported by Medical Certificate from a Registered Medical Practitioner:- (i) Full scholarship, if the absence does not exceed two months. (ii) Half scholarship, if absence exceeds two months but not four months. For the first two months the scholarships will be paid at full rates and only for the period exceeding two months, the scholarship is to be paid at half the rates. (iii) No scholarship, if absence exceeds four months. For the first four months, however, the scholarship will be paid as per (i) and (ii).

What will be the Value Of The Scholarships For Undergraduate Studies?

The value of the scholarships for undergraduate studies in Agriculture (including Agricultural Engineering & Home Science) and Animal Science subjects will be ₹ 1,000/- per month per student. The scholarship will be tenable for the full duration of the degree course in the concerned subject.

Which subjects of the Graduation Level are covered in this scheme?

Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering, Home Science, Dairy & Animal Husbandry subjects up to graduation level.

Are the scholarships awarded monthly or annually?

The scholarships are awarded annually on the basis of merit-cum-means.

Is there a minimum marks that is to be secured in the qualifying examination in order to be eligible for this scholarship?

Only those students who have secured not less than 60% marks or grade points equivalent thereof in the aggregate in the qualifying examination will be considered eligible for consideration.

How will the Inter-Se Merit Of Candidates Having Secured Equal Marks In The Qualifying Examination Will Be Determined?

The inter-se merit of candidates having secured equal marks in the qualifying examination will be determined on the basis of marks obtained by such candidates in the science subjects in that examination.

Are foreign nationals also eligible to apply to this scheme?

The Scholarship will ordinarily be admissible to the person of Indian Nationality as defined in the constitution of India.

Can transgenders apply to this scheme?

Yes, The Scholarship Will Ordinarily Be Admissible Irrespective Of Sex, Race Or Religion.

Definitions

  • income

References

Website
https://www.icar.org.in/
Guidelines
https://icar.org.in/sites/default/files/Circulars/Guidelines%20for%20ICAR-MCM%20Scholarship.pdf

Apply

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Frequently asked questions

What is the purpose of Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects?
Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects 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 Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects?
Eligibility for Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects 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 Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects?
Benefits under Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects 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 Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects?
Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects is managed by Department of Agriculture Research and Education and may be implemented through district offices, online portals, CSC centres, banks, or authorised government agencies.
Can users apply online for Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects?
Yes, eligible applicants may be able to apply online for Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects through official government portals, authorised service centres, or digital application systems depending on the implementation process.
Is Aadhaar mandatory for Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects?
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 Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects?
Applications for Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects 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 Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects?
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 Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects?
Income certificate requirements may vary depending on beneficiary category, subsidy eligibility, and financial assistance criteria defined under Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects.
Is Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects a central government scheme?
Yes, Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects is a central government welfare initiative that may be implemented across multiple states through authorised departments and agencies.
Can small and marginal farmers apply for Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects?
Eligible small and marginal farmers may apply for Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects subject to land ownership records, income eligibility, and agricultural beneficiary criteria.
Does Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects provide subsidy support for farmers?
Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects may provide agricultural subsidies, financial assistance, crop support, irrigation benefits, insurance coverage, or farming-related welfare assistance depending on the scheme structure.
Can students apply for Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects?
Eligible students studying in recognised institutions may apply for Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects depending on educational qualification, category, income limit, and academic eligibility.
Is scholarship amount provided under Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects?
Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects may provide scholarship assistance, tuition support, educational reimbursement, or financial aid for eligible students.
Can CSC centres help users apply for Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects?
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 Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects?
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 Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects?
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 Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects?
Certain schemes may provide online application tracking, beneficiary verification systems, or status-check facilities through official portals.
Where can users get help for Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects 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 Merit·cum·Means Scholarships For Under Graduate Studies In Various Branches Of Agriculture And Animal Science Subjects 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.