Question : NATIONAL OVERSEAS SCHOLARSHIP

(a) whether it is a fact that the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme for SCs/STs which was operational since 1954-55 has been discontinued from 1997;

(b) if so, reasons therefor;

(c) if not, furnish the number of SCs/STs students/Scholars who have been awarded the said scholarship/fellowships for the years 1997, 1998 and 1999;

(d) whether the Government propose to review the scheme with modification;

(e) if so, details thereof and the present status of the scheme; and

(f) the time frame worked out therefor?

MINISTER OF STATE OF THE MINISTRY OF SOCIAL JUSTICE AND EMPOWERMENT (SMT. MANEKA GANDHI)

(a) No Sir. The Scheme of National Overseas Scholarship for SC, ST etc. candidates was introduced in 1954-55. The Scheme was operated until 1994-95. It was thereafter modified and the Scheme was reintroduced from 1998-99. The students who were earlier selected, however, continued to receive scholarship to complete their studies.

(b) Does not arise.

(c) The process for the final selection of awardees for the selection years 1998-99 & 1999-2000 (combined) is in process.

(d)to(f) The Scheme was, last, modified with effect from 1998-99. There is no proposal at present to review the scheme.