The government of Odisha has initiated a scholarship programme aimed at Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) students aspiring to undertake postgraduate or doctoral studies at prestigious international universities. Named ‘Bidesh Sikhyabruti’, this initiative falls under the Mukhyamantri Medhabi Chhatra Protsahan Yojana (MMCPY). It is designed to provide essential financial support, assisting eligible candidates in managing the various costs associated with higher education abroad.

Eligibility Criteria For Applicants

To qualify for the scholarship, candidates must be from SC and ST communities with a family income of up to Rs 12 lakh per annum. Applications are accepted for the academic years 2025–26 and 2026–27 through the Odisha State Scholarship Portal from 18 August to 31 August. The scheme is designed to assist 50 students annually across different fields of study.

Applicants are allowed to utilise the scholarship only once, either for a master’s level course or for a PhD. Successful candidates must secure admission to a university that is ranked within the top 200 globally. Additionally, applicants must affirm that they are not current employees of any government organisation when applying for the scholarship.

The scheme appears to be accessible to a wide range of students in the targeted communities, allowing for an increase in opportunities for those looking to further their education internationally. By establishing clear eligibility criteria, the Odisha government aims to ensure that the support reaches deserving students.

Financial Assistance Details

The Bidesh Sikhyabruti scheme provides significant financial assistance, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and additional costs related to studying abroad. Each eligible student can receive a maximum of Rs 25 lakh per year, which can help in alleviating the financial strain associated with international education.

The duration of the scholarship is dependent on the type of course undertaken. For postgraduate studies, financial support is available for either one or two years, based on the length of the programme. For PhD students, assistance is restricted to a two-year period, and no extensions beyond this timeframe will be permitted. This structure is intended to help students efficiently plan their educational journey without unexpected financial burdens.

The initiative’s goal is to lessen the financial hurdles that might deter eligible students from seeking international education. By providing this scholarship, the Odisha government aims to facilitate greater access to education opportunities abroad for SC and ST students.

Implications for Students

For SC and ST students considering studying overseas, this scholarship represents a vital resource that can mitigate some of the major expenses involved, including tuition fees and living costs. The financial backing provided through this scheme could significantly impact their ability to pursue higher education at prestigious institutions worldwide.

As the applications are set to open shortly, students are encouraged to prepare necessary documentation and check their eligibility to ensure a smooth application process. This initiative is viewed as a step towards promoting educational equity and enhancing the prospects of students from underrepresented communities in international higher education.

Information regarding the application process and further details about the Bidesh Sikhyabruti scholarship scheme can be accessed through the official Odisha State Scholarship Portal. This programme stands as a reflection of the state’s commitment to uplifting SC and ST students, providing them with enhanced opportunities in the global educational landscape.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share