Opinion | Introduction of Merit-Based Scholarships for Kashmir Students

The way the central government has planned for the education of students in J&K is just like how a father plans for his own child. A common Kashmiri’s son can now dream of studying in any part of the country, and that is why I say, “The state is the first mother.”

Kashmir has long been a focal point of TV debates and newspaper headlines, often associated with political instability, street violence, and turmoil. A land renowned for its breathtaking tourism potential was, for years, overshadowed by terrorism. In many of my previous articles, I have emphasized how terrorism devastated us—both economically and educationally. The persistent climate of fear kept tourists away, crippling local businesses and stalling economic growth. When discussing the impact of terrorism on education in Kashmir, one cannot ignore the 1990s—a period that marked the rise of militancy in the region. Schools, often constructed with wood at the time, became easy targets for arson by terrorists. This was a major setback for education, but an even deeper wound was inflicted by the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits, who were predominantly educators and scholars. Their forced migration left a vacuum in Kashmir’s education sector, depriving generations of students of quality learning. As a result, many Kashmiri students, despite their aspirations, found their academic dreams shattered by circumstances beyond their control. However, to counter these challenges and ensure that education remained a priority, several scholarship programs were introduced specifically for Kashmiri students. In this article, I will explore these initiatives, highlighting how they have played a crucial role in shaping the future of Kashmir’s youth.
The most significant and transformative scholarship for Kashmiri students has been the Prime Minister’s Special Scholarship Scheme (PMSSS). Launched in 2011 by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE), the PMSSS was designed to assist students from Jammu and Kashmir who lacked the financial means to pursue higher education outside the region. Given that the valley remained in constant turmoil for decades, this scheme came as a much-needed relief for many aspiring students. While the children of those who claimed to be the ‘thakedars’ of Kashmir—who dictated ‘hartal’ calendars—were studying at elite institutions like Oxford and Stanford, the sons and daughters of common Kashmiris were often pushed into street violence and uncertainty. The PMSSS played a crucial role in breaking this cycle by offering 5,000 fresh scholarships annually, distributed as follows: 2,070 for general degree courses, 2,830 for professional and engineering courses, and 100 for medical courses. Beyond financial aid, this scholarship also fostered social and cultural empowerment. When a student from Kashmir—who has grown up in an atmosphere of conflict—meets a peer from Kerala in a university outside the valley, he or she realizes that the world is far bigger than just unrest and violence. This exposure broadens perspectives, enhances educational growth, and enriches cultural understanding. I personally know several individuals who have pursued their education through PMSSS and are now well-settled in their careers. The scheme not only covers tuition fees but also provides an annual ₹1 lakh stipend directly to the student’s account for accommodation and living expenses. The registration process is conducted online through AICTE’s official website, and eligibility is determined after completing Class 12.
The National Scholarship Portal (NSP) is yet another remarkable relief for the students of Jammu and Kashmir. This digital platform, launched by the Government of India, provides a centralized system for students to apply for various scholarships without hassle. Through NSP, students can register, apply, and track the status of their applications online, significantly reducing paperwork and making the process more efficient. While PMSSS primarily supports students after Class 12, NSP caters to those in lower classes as well, ensuring that financial aid reaches students at different educational levels. I personally remember applying for this scholarship in Class 11, and I received my academic fee coverage for two consecutive years, easing the financial burden on my family. NSP has been particularly beneficial for students from economically weaker sections (EWS) in Kashmir, especially those falling under the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category. The Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mode has further streamlined the process, ensuring that funds are directly disbursed into students’ bank accounts, eliminating middlemen and preventing delays or mismanagement. Although I could not find the exact number of NSP beneficiaries from J&K, I can say from personal experience that in my own village, almost every other household has at least one student benefiting from this scheme. This scholarship portal has been a lifeline for many Kashmiri students, enabling them to continue their education without financial constraints.
Another crucial scholarship that has transformed the educational landscape of Jammu and Kashmir is the Prime Minister’s Upliftment Scheme for Central Sector Scholarship (PM USP CSSS). Launched to provide financial assistance to meritorious students from economically weaker backgrounds, this scholarship has become a beacon of hope for many Kashmiri students aiming for higher education. Unlike PMSSS, which is specifically for students pursuing professional courses outside J&K, PM USP CSSS benefits students who wish to continue their studies within Jammu and Kashmir as well. Under this scheme, 3,000 fresh scholarships are awarded every year to students from J&K and Ladakh, with 1,500 each for boys and girls, ensuring gender inclusivity in education. Students who secure a minimum of 60% in their Class 12 board exams and enroll in recognized colleges or universities are eligible for this scholarship. The financial aid is structured as ₹12,000 per year for undergraduate courses and ₹20,000 per year for postgraduate courses, helping students cover tuition fees, books, and other academic expenses. What makes PM USP CSSS stand out is its consistency and accessibility. Many students from Kashmir, who struggle with financial instability, rely on this scholarship to fulfill their academic aspirations. While the amount may not cover all expenses, it provides a strong foundation for students to focus on their studies without the constant worry of financial hurdles. Over the years, this scheme has helped thousands of Kashmiri students pursue degrees in various fields such as humanities, sciences, commerce, and even research-oriented courses. I personally know several students who, despite financial hardships, managed to complete their higher education through this scholarship and are now contributing to society in different capacities. The direct transfer of funds into students’ bank accounts further ensures transparency and eliminates unnecessary bureaucratic delays. For a region that has faced educational disruptions due to past turmoil, PM USP CSSS has played a pivotal role in ensuring that no deserving student is left behind due to financial constraints.

Besides all these government scholarships, the Indian Army has also played a crucial role in supporting meritorious students through various educational initiatives under Operation Sadbhavana. While OP Sadbhavana itself has benefited numerous students, the newly launched Kashmir Special Scholarship in 2023 has further expanded educational opportunities for underprivileged students. Under this initiative, 146 students from various districts in the valley receive ₹1.2 lakh each to support their education, with access to 12 affiliated universities across the country. Beyond scholarships, the Army has also been instrumental in shaping careers by collaborating with other organizations to provide free one-year residential coaching for competitive exams. Programs like ‘Super 30’, specifically designed for NEET and JEE aspirants, have emerged as game-changers, offering intensive training to over 100 students annually at different locations. These initiatives not only empower students financially but also equip them with the necessary skills and guidance to secure admissions into top institutions and prestigious career paths.
So, the Kashmiri students have been empowered through education with the help of various scholarships. These initiatives have not only provided financial relief but have also opened doors to institutions across the country, allowing students to dream bigger and achieve more. Now that we are not in a phase of frequent internet shutdowns, with connectivity remaining stable, students have seamless access to their portals, making the application process more efficient. The government has meticulously planned for the educational upliftment of Kashmiri students, ensuring that talent is nurtured, not wasted. With scholarships covering everything from school to higher education, the youth of Kashmir now stand at the threshold of limitless opportunities, ready to script their own success stories.
Email: Vadiekashmir@gmail.com