Question : REVISION OF SCHOLARSHIP SCHEME FOR BACKWARD CLASSES CHILDREN

(a) whether the income ceiling for eligibility and maintenance allowance has not been enhanced under post-matric scholarship scheme for backward classes children since 1998;

(b) if so, the details thereof and the reasons therefor;

(c) whether the Government proposes to take steps to enhance the income ceiling for post-matric scholarship and maintenance allowance to ensure assistance to the needy; and

(d) if so, the details thereof and the time by which it is likely to be implemented?

MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF SOCIAL JUSTICE & EMPOWERMENT (SHRI D. NAPOLEON)

(a) to (d): Due to budgetary constraints the income ceiling for eligibility and maintenance allowance has not been enhanced under Post Matric Scholarship scheme for OBC students since inception of the scheme in 1998. However, steps are being taken to revise the scheme shortly.