Delhi’s government has launched a transformative scholarship scheme under the “Education for All” initiative, targeting economically disadvantaged students. The program offers financial aid for higher education, streamlined applications via an online portal, and aims to benefit thousands across SC/ST/OBC categories. With modernized processes and faster disbursals, it seeks to ensure equitable access to quality education.
Delhi’s Bold Step Toward Inclusive Education with New Scholarship Scheme
The Delhi government has rolled out an ambitious scholarship scheme under its “Education for All” initiative, aimed at empowering students from economically weaker and marginalized communities. Announced in late June 2025, the program is designed to bridge financial gaps for students pursuing higher education, ensuring that no deserving candidate is left behind due to economic constraints.
The scheme, launched under the Delhi Higher Education Aid Trust, focuses on students from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and Economically Weaker Sections (EWS). It provides financial assistance ranging from ₹10,000 to ₹1.25 lakh annually, depending on the course and level of study. The initiative covers undergraduate and postgraduate programs, including professional courses like engineering, medicine, and law. According to Social Welfare Minister Ravinder Indraj, over 52% of pending SC/ST/OBC scholarship applications have been cleared in the past three months, showcasing the government’s commitment to addressing backlogs and improving access.
A key feature of the scheme is its digital-first approach. The government is developing an online portal, expected to be fully operational by August 2025, to streamline applications and expedite disbursal. “This portal will eliminate paperwork and ensure funds reach students within 15-30 days of verification,” said Minister Indraj during a recent press conference. The portal will integrate with DigiLocker for seamless verification of credentials like caste certificates and academic records, reducing delays and fraudulent claims.
The scheme also includes provisions for students pursuing education abroad, with specific financial aid packages for SC students. Additionally, the government plans to establish hostels in every district to support SC/ST students, enhancing their access to educational infrastructure. A public awareness campaign is scheduled for late July 2025 to ensure students across Delhi are informed about the scheme and its benefits.
To ensure inclusivity, the program aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, emphasizing modern technologies and skill-based learning. Delhi Education Minister Ashish Sood highlighted that government schools will soon integrate AI, smart boards, and robotics to enhance learning, complementing the scholarship initiative. “We want to equip our students with both financial support and cutting-edge education to compete globally,” Sood stated.
The scheme has already garnered praise for its scale and vision. Over 1,300 university students have benefited from similar programs in Delhi this year, with the new scheme expected to reach over 50,000 students annually once fully implemented. However, challenges remain, including ensuring timely disbursal and preventing misuse, as seen in recent scholarship scams in other states like Madhya Pradesh and Hoshiarpur, where fake applications siphoned off funds.
The Delhi government has pledged strict oversight, with regular audits and verification processes to safeguard the scheme’s integrity. “We are committed to making education a right, not a privilege,” said Chief Minister Atishi, emphasizing the initiative’s role in building an equitable future. A post on X by Rekha Gupta, a Delhi official, highlighted the scheme’s launch, noting its focus on empowering meritorious students from weaker sections.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent news reports, official statements from the Delhi government, and posts found on X. Information is sourced from credible outlets like The Hindu, Times of India, and Hindustan Times, but readers are advised to verify details through official government portals for the latest updates.