Education is a basic right, and every child should have the chance to learn and grow, no matter their situation. Understanding the difficulties faced by girls with disabilities in rural areas, the Government of Punjab has introduced the “Attendance Scholarship Scheme for Girl Students with Disabilities of R ural Areas. “Department of Social Security and Women & Child Development, this scheme aims to support and empower these young girls by providing financial aid to help them continue their education.
Objective of the Scheme
Many girls in rural areas struggle to continue their education due to financial difficulties and disabilities. Some face transportation challenges, while others are forced to prioritize household responsibilities over studies. The Attendance Scholarship Scheme aims to:
- Provide financial assistance to girl students with disabilities, reducing their economic burden.
- Encourage regular school attendance by offering scholarships based on attendance records.
- Reduce dropout rates and ensure that girls continue their education beyond primary levels.
- Promote self-reliance among girls with disabilities by equipping them with knowledge and skills.
By addressing these challenges, the scheme plays a crucial role in promoting inclusive education and ensuring that no girl is left behind.
Benefits of the Scheme
The scholarship offers direct financial incentives to girl students based on their education level:
- ₹2,500 per annum for girls studying up to the 10th standard.
- ₹3,000 per annum for girls studying in 10+1, 10+2, and higher education.
This amount is directly credited to the student’s bank account, ensuring transparency and easy access to the financial aid.
Eligibility Criteria
To avail of the scholarship, the applicant must meet the following conditions:
- Residency – The student must be a rural girl from Punjab.
- Disability Requirement – The girl must have a disability of 40% or more, as per the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016.
- Income Limit – The family’s monthly income should not exceed ₹5,000 (i.e., less than ₹60,000 per year).
- Attendance Requirement – The student must have a minimum attendance of 70% in her school or college.
- Educational Eligibility – The scheme is available for students from 1st standard to higher education.
Required Documents
To apply for the Attendance Scholarship Scheme, applicants need to submit the following documents:
- Disability Certificate / UDID Card – This should confirm a 40% or more disability.
- Income Certificate – Proof that the family’s annual income is less than ₹60,000.
- Bank Account Details – A copy of the student’s bank passbook or a document showing her account details.
- Additional Documents – Any other documents as required by the authorities.
