NSIGSE
National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education
5.5/10The National Scheme of Incentive to Girls for Secondary Education aims to enhance the enrollment of girls aged 14-18 who have successfully completed class 8. This initiative specifically targets those who may drop out due to socio-economic challenges. Eligible girls from Scheduled Castes or Scheduled Tribes, as well as those who have passed class 8 from Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidhalayas, can benefit from a one-time cash incentive of ₹3000. This amount is deposited in a fixed-term account until the girl reaches 18 years of age, ensuring that no premature withdrawals are allowed. To qualify, applicants must enroll in class 9 at recognized State or UT Government schools, Government-aided institutions, or local body schools. The scheme not only supports educational pursuits but also encourages the continuation of studies beyond the secondary level, as beneficiaries must complete at least two years of education to access the funds. This initiative is managed by the Ministry of Education, under the Department of School Education and Literacy, and is applicable across all states in India.
States / UT: All India
Ministry / nodal: Ministry of Education
Nodal department: Department of School Education and Literacy
Scheme for: Individual
Scheme profile
DBT (direct benefit transfer): Yes
Scheme open date: 2004-01-01
Categories: Education & Learning, Women and Child
Sub-categories: Scholarships and student finance
Target beneficiaries: Individual
Tags: Incentive, Education, Girl Child, Pre-Matric
Details
The National Scheme of Incentive to Girls for Secondary Education promotes the girl child's enrolment of 14-18 years age group at secondary stage, who passes class 8th and subsequently drops out for various socio-economic reasons. The proposed scheme is further intended to retain such girl children up to class 12th. In the year 2004-05, the dropout rate of girls from classes 1st to 8th was about 50.8%. For classes 1st to 10th the dropout rate of girls was about 64% in the same year. Hence, only 36% of the country's girl students could be retained up to class 10th. This is the combined result of several socio-economic factors, but a major contributor is no doubt the inability of the parents to afford the cost of education of the girl child.
Benefits
- - A sum of ₹3000/- would be deposited under term deposit/ fixed deposit in a public sector bank or in a post office in the name of every eligible girl child
- The term/ period of the deposit may be counted from the date of deposit to the date on which the girl child attains the age of 18 years. No premature withdrawal will be allowed
- A sum of ₹3000/- would be deposited under term deposit/ fixed deposit in a public sector bank or in a post office in the name of every eligible girl child.
- The term/ period of the deposit may be counted from the date of deposit to the date on which the girl child attains the age of 18 years. No premature withdrawal will be allowed.
Eligibility
- The applicant should be a girl child.
- The applicant should be from Scheduled Caste / Scheduled Tribe SC/ST
- The applicant should have passed class 8th from Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidhalayas (irrespective of whether they belong to Scheduled Castes or Tribes)
- The applicant should have enrolled for class 9th in State/UT Government, Government-aided, or local body schools in the academic year 2008-09 onwards.
Exclusions
- Married girls will be excluded from the scheme.
- Girl children studying in private unaided schools are proposed to be excluded since a majority of such schools charge high fees and therefore, parents of such girl students may not require the financial assistance that is being offered under this scheme.
- Students enrolled in schools run by Central Government are also being excluded from the scheme, as these children are either fully provided for already, or are those of Central Government employees, who can afford the education of their children, without further support.
How useful is this scheme?
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.
- Accessibility5.0
- Financial impact4.0
- Rural utility3.0
- Awareness7.5
- Simplicity3.5
- Inclusivity10.0
What problem does this scheme solve?
The scheme effectively promotes secondary education for girls, particularly from marginalized communities.
Key challenges addressed
- Encourages enrollment of girls in secondary education
- Addresses dropout rates among girls
Most beneficial for
- Girls aged 14-18 from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes
- Families facing socio-economic challenges
Likely challenges
- Digital literacy required for online application
- Awareness of eligibility criteria among potential beneficiaries
Practical insights for citizens
The scheme's reliance on online applications may hinder access for some eligible beneficiaries.
Rural challenges
- Limited internet access
- Lack of awareness about the scheme
Digital challenges
- Dependence on digital platforms for application
Implementation bottlenecks
- Verification of eligibility criteria
Awareness challenges
- Low awareness in rural areas
Application analysis
- Application mode
- Online portal
- Verification complexity
- Moderate
- Office dependency
- None
- DBT dependency
- Yes
- CSC support
- Limited
- Estimated citizen effort
- Moderate
Estimated beneficiary reach
Benefit analysis
- Benefit type
- Cash
- Benefit frequency
- One-time
- Benefit practicality
- Moderate, as funds are locked until the beneficiary turns 18
- Financial meaningfulness
- High, as ₹3000 can significantly aid educational expenses
- Long-term impact
- Positive, encouraging continued education and reducing dropout rates
Plain-language guidance
This scheme provides a one-time cash incentive to girls who have completed class 8 and are enrolling in class 9, aimed at reducing dropout rates. It is specifically for girls from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes.
- Who should apply
- Girls aged 14-18 from SC/ST backgrounds who have completed class 8.
- Who may struggle
- Those without internet access or digital literacy.
- Best application route
- Apply through the National Scholarships Portal online.
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 Registration page of the National Scholarships Portal.
Step 2: Guidelines for Registration will appear. Scroll to the bottom. Read carefully the undertaking. Accept the Terms. Click “Continue”.
Step 3: A Registration Form will appear. (The fields marked as * are compulsory). Fill in the details and click “Register”. Your Application ID and password will be displayed. The same will also be sent as an SMS to your registered mobile number.
Fresh Application:
Step 1: Visit the applicant Login page of the National Scholarships Portal Enter your Application ID 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. The verification of credentials of the students (caste, educational qualifications etc.) will be done through the DIGILOCKER facility of the MeitY, Govt. of India.
Step 6: You can either click on “Save as Draft” to complete the application later. Else, click “Final Submit” to apply.
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.
Clarifications
Additional points from the scheme information published on myScheme (not legal advice).
- Q. How Much Amount Will I Receive As A Scholarship Under The NSIGSE Scheme?
Ans: The eligible candidate shall receive a sum of INR 3000 and accrued interest at the end of the term of the interest-bearing account.
- Q. I Am 17 Years Old And Married. I Have Enrolled In Class 9 In A Secondary School. Am I Eligible To Avail The Benefits Of The NSIGSE Scheme?
Ans: The maximum age of the girl child while applying for the benefits of this scheme shall not be more than 16 years. Moreover, married girls do not qualify for the incentive amount offered under this scheme.
- Q. I Study At A CBSE School In Bangalore. Am I Eligible To Avail Of The Benefits Of This Scheme?
Ans: No. Candidates who have enrolled for their class 9 in any Central Government schools or private schools do not receive additional financial assistance.
- Q. I Enrolled In Class 9 At The Age Of 16. However, I Could Not Continue My Studies After A Year. Will I Qualify For Withdrawing The Incentive Amount Under The NSIGSE Scheme?
Ans: No. Beneficiary female students are allowed to utilize the funds if they continue their studies for at least two years from the date of enrolment under the scheme. The passing certificate of the Class 10 board examination is a must to avail of the incentive benefits.
- Q. I Am The Only Male Child In My Family. We Belong To SC And BPL Categories. Am I Eligible To Avail The Benefits Of The NSIGSE Scheme?
Ans: No. NSIGSE scholarships are offered only to eligible female students. However, you can explore various other schemes that may suit your requirement.
- Q. Will My Parents Be Entitled To Withdraw The Money In Case Of My Death Before 18 Years Of Age?
Ans: No. The incentive amount of the NSIGSE Scheme shall be transferred to the savings account of the beneficiary girl child if only she survives the policy term. However, the amount is not transferable to the account of her parents or legal guardians in case of her unfortunate demise. In such cases, the amount shall be returned to the account of the Central government of India.
- Q. Where Do I Find The Last Dates Of New Applications And Renewal Of Applications For The NSIGSE Scheme?
Ans: The tentative dates of applications every year lie between September and November. However, it would be best if you refer to the notifications on the official website for authentic information.
- Q. Can I Apply For The NSIGSE Scheme Offline?
Ans: No. The scheme accepts applications only on an online platform. To learn more about the online application process, read through the 'How to Apply section of this page.
- Q. Can I Withdraw My Amount Before Completing 18 Years?
Ans: No, you are not entitled for premature withdrawal of the incentive under the NSIGSE Scheme.
- Q. How Much Money Do I Get As A Scholarship Under The NSIGSE Scheme?
Ans: Under the National Scheme of Incentive to Girls for Secondary Education, the eligible students are entitled to receive a one-time incentive of INR 3000. The term of the fixed deposit amount shall be calculated as the duration between the date of principal deposit and 18th birthday of the beneficiary girl child.
- Q. Can I Use The Incentive Amount To Pay My School Fees?
Ans: No. Since you are not eligible to withdraw the amount till the completion of your class 10 and attaining 18 years of age, you cannot use the investive to pay school fees or carry out any other financial tasks. However, you can use the sum for your higher education in the future.
Official links
References
- Guidelines
- https://scholarships.gov.in/public/schemeGuidelines/NSIGSEGuidelines.pdf
- Scheme Details
- https://dsel.education.gov.in/nsigse
Apply
Apply nowOpens 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 National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education?
- National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education 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 National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education?
- Eligibility for National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education 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 National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education?
- Benefits under National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education 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 National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education?
- National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education is managed by Department of School Education and Literacy and may be implemented through district offices, online portals, CSC centres, banks, or authorised government agencies.
- Can users apply online for National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education?
- Yes, eligible applicants may be able to apply online for National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education through official government portals, authorised service centres, or digital application systems depending on the implementation process.
- Is Aadhaar mandatory for National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education?
- 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 National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education?
- Applications for National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education 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 National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education?
- 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 National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education?
- Income certificate requirements may vary depending on beneficiary category, subsidy eligibility, and financial assistance criteria defined under National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education.
- Is National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education a central government scheme?
- Yes, National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education is a central government welfare initiative that may be implemented across multiple states through authorised departments and agencies.
- Can students apply for National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education?
- Eligible students studying in recognised institutions may apply for National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education depending on educational qualification, category, income limit, and academic eligibility.
- Is scholarship amount provided under National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education?
- National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education may provide scholarship assistance, tuition support, educational reimbursement, or financial aid for eligible students.
- Is National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education only for women beneficiaries?
- National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education is primarily intended to support eligible women beneficiaries through welfare assistance, financial support, skill development, healthcare, or social security initiatives.
- Does National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education support self-employment or financial assistance for women?
- Depending on scheme guidelines, National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education may provide loans, subsidies, training support, self-employment assistance, or financial welfare benefits for women.
- Can CSC centres help users apply for National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education?
- 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 National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education?
- 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 National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education?
- 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 National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education?
- Certain schemes may provide online application tracking, beneficiary verification systems, or status-check facilities through official portals.
- Where can users get help for National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education 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 National Scheme Of Incentive To Girls For Secondary Education 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.