Target set to cover 2.70 lakh students in 2025-26; Punjab releases ₹196 crore as its share
Chandigarh, March 8:
Responding to a question raised by Payal MLA Sardar Manwinder Singh during the ongoing session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur informed that the Post Matric Scholarship for SC Students Scheme is being implemented in Punjab under the 60:40 sharing pattern between the Central and State Governments.
The Cabinet Minister stated that for the financial year 2025-26, the Punjab Government has already released ₹196 crore as its 40 percent share to benefit 1,65,328 students under the scheme, ensuring continued financial support for Scheduled Caste students pursuing higher education.
Dr. Baljit Kaur further informed that more than 2.72 lakh Scheduled Caste students have applied so far for the Post Matric Scholarship Scheme during 2025-26 through the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Scholarship Portal, reflecting the growing awareness and trust of students in the scheme.
Sharing details of the number of verified beneficiaries under the scheme over the years, the Minister said that 1,76,482 students were verified in 2020-21, 1,95,156 in 2021-22, 2,26,427 in 2022-23, 2,14,558 in 2023-24 and 2,37,456 SC students in 2024-25.
The Minister further informed that the Punjab Government has set a target to cover around 2.70 lakh students under the Post Matric Scholarship Scheme during 2025-26, reflecting the government’s commitment to expand educational opportunities for students belonging to Scheduled Castes.
Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized that the scheme is playing a vital role in supporting higher education and empowering students from disadvantaged sections, enabling them to pursue their academic aspirations and build a stronger future.
