The Central Government is implementing the Post-Matric Scholarship (PMS) Scheme for Scheduled Caste (SC) students with the objective of significantly increasing the Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) of SC students in higher education, particularly those belonging to the poorest households. The scheme provides financial assistance at the post-matriculation and post-secondary levels, enabling eligible Scheduled Caste students to pursue and complete their education.

Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Shri Ramdas Athawale, in a written reply to Shri Golla Baburao in Rajya Sabha, informed the House that the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme has been implemented continuously in the State of Andhra Pradesh since 2020-21. Scholarships have been disbursed to eligible applicants across all districts of the State.

According to the latest available data, Andhra Pradesh received Central Assistance of ₹149.03 crore, benefiting 81,667 students during 2026-27 (up to 24 July 2026).

The Minister further informed that the funding pattern of the scheme was revised in 2020-21, replacing the earlier concept of State Committed Liability with a fixed Centre-State sharing ratio of 60:40, while the ratio for North-Eastern States has been fixed at 90:10. The revised funding pattern has reduced the financial burden on States and enhanced the Central Government's contribution towards the scheme.

The House was also informed that several transformative reforms have been introduced under the scheme to improve efficiency, transparency and accountability. These include end-to-end online processing of applications, digital verification of eligibility through linkage with available databases, faster verification, continuous monitoring, prevention of duplication and timely delivery of scholarship benefits.

Further, the Government introduced Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) under the scheme from 2021-22, ensuring that scholarship amounts are transferred directly into the Aadhaar-seeded bank accounts of eligible students. The initiative has simplified the flow of funds, improved transparency and ensured accurate targeting of beneficiaries. Applications are invited through the designated State scholarship portals or the National Scholarship Portal, while the release of the Central share is contingent upon the timely release of the corresponding State share.

The Minister also informed that delays in verification of applications by States and delays in the release of the State share can consequently delay the release of the Central assistance to eligible beneficiaries. The Government continues to work with States and Union Territories to ensure timely verification and disbursement of scholarships so that eligible Scheduled Caste students receive financial assistance without delay.

*******

PR-050-TAR/KV/GA

(रिलीज़ आईडी: 2294510) आगंतुक पटल : 61