“Punjab’s revamped scholarship scheme for Divyang students, launched in 2025, aims to empower through education. Offering increased financial aid, streamlined applications, and broader eligibility, it supports students with disabilities from classes 1 to 12 and beyond. With enhanced funding and digital processes, the initiative fosters inclusivity, enabling Divyangs to pursue academic and professional goals.”
Punjab Bolsters Support for Divyang Students with Enhanced Scholarship Scheme
In a significant step toward inclusive education, the Punjab government has introduced a revamped scholarship scheme for students with disabilities, referred to as Divyangs, in 2025. Administered by the Department of Social Security and Women & Child Development, the initiative builds on the existing “Scholarships to Students with Disabilities Scheme,” originally launched in 1996. The updated program increases financial aid, simplifies application processes, and expands eligibility to better support Divyang students across Punjab.
The scheme targets students with a disability of 40% or above, as certified under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act 2016. For students in classes 1 to 8, the scholarship provides ₹300 per month, up from the previous ₹200, while those in class 9 and above, including those pursuing advanced education or professional training, receive ₹450 per month, an increase from ₹300. These funds are directly credited to students’ bank accounts through an online system managed by the Directorate, ensuring transparency and efficiency.
Eligibility criteria have been broadened to include more Divyang students. Applicants must be Punjab residents, with their family or guardian’s monthly income not exceeding ₹6,000, up from the earlier ₹5,000 cap. Students need to secure at least 40% marks in their previous annual examination to qualify. The application process has been digitized, allowing submissions through school or college heads, who forward verified applications to the District Social Security Officer (DSSO) via an online portal launched in early 2025.
The scheme also introduces provisions for vocational and technical training, addressing the need for skill development among Divyangs. Approximately 12,000 students benefited from the scheme in 2024, and officials expect this number to rise significantly in 2025 due to increased awareness and simplified access. The Punjab government has allocated ₹50 crore for the program this fiscal year, a 20% increase from 2024, reflecting its commitment to empowering Divyangs.
Collaboration with educational institutions and NGOs has been strengthened to ensure effective implementation. Schools and colleges are now required to appoint nodal officers to assist Divyang students in navigating the application process. Additionally, awareness campaigns are being rolled out across Punjab’s districts to inform eligible students and their families about the enhanced benefits.
The initiative aligns with national efforts under the RPwD Act to promote inclusivity and equal opportunities. By focusing on education and skill-building, Punjab’s scholarship scheme aims to enable Divyang students to achieve financial independence and contribute meaningfully to society.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information sourced from the Department of Social Security and Women & Child Development, Government of Punjab, and official announcements available on public platforms as of July 3, 2025. Readers are advised to verify details with official government sources for the latest updates.