Patna: In a landmark move, the Bihar state government has introduced a new incentive scheme aimed at supporting differently-abled candidates who successfully pass the civil services examinations. The scheme, under the ‘Sambal’ initiative, will provide financial assistance to male candidates from backward classes, economically weaker sections, and the general category who have qualified in the preliminary exams of the Bihar Public Service Commission (BPSC) and the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC).
This is the first time such an initiative has been extended to candidates with disabilities. Previously, the scheme was limited to other categories of candidates, but now the government has widened its scope to include differently-abled individuals, helping them overcome financial barriers during their preparation for the BPSC and UPSC main exams and interviews.
Financial Support for UPSC and BPSC Successful Candidates
According to the Social Welfare Department, eligible candidates who clear the preliminary exams for BPSC will receive a grant of ₹50,000, while those qualifying the UPSC prelims will be given ₹1 lakh. The initiative is designed to encourage differently-abled youths to participate in the higher civil services and reduce the financial challenges they face during preparation.
Eligibility Criteria for the Scheme
To avail of the Civil Services Incentive Scheme, the following eligibility criteria have been set by the Bihar government:
- The candidate must be a permanent resident of Bihar.
- The candidate must belong to the backward classes, economically weaker sections, or the general category and provide a valid certificate for the same.
- The candidate must have at least 40% disability.
- The candidate must have cleared the preliminary exam of BPSC or UPSC.
- The candidate should not be employed with any state or central government or a public sector undertaking.
Additionally, the scheme allows for only one-time financial assistance, regardless of whether the candidate has cleared the preliminary exams of both BPSC and UPSC.
Online Application Process and Required Documents
To apply for the scheme, candidates will need to submit an online application on the designated portal, which is expected to be launched soon. They will be required to upload essential documents, including:
- A recent photograph and signature
- Residential proof
- Caste/Category certificate
- Disability certificate (minimum 40% disability)
- UDID card
- Entry pass and self-certified copy of the application form
- Answer sheet of the prelim exam
- Aadhar card copy, mobile number, and active email ID.
Government’s Vision for Empowering Differently-Abled Candidates
Speaking about the initiative, Bandana Pratyeshi, Secretary of the Social Welfare Department, stated, “The portal for the scheme is expected to be launched this Friday. After that, eligible candidates will be able to apply and begin benefiting from the financial assistance.”
This initiative aims to empower differently-abled individuals by ensuring they have the financial support needed for civil services preparation. The government believes that by providing such incentives, it will encourage a higher number of differently-abled individuals to participate in competitive exams, which will eventually help in increasing the representation of persons with disabilities in the civil services.
About the ‘Sambal’ Scheme
The ‘Sambal’ scheme is a part of the state government’s broader efforts to promote the empowerment and welfare of the differently-abled community. By removing financial constraints, the state government hopes to provide these individuals with equal opportunities to pursue careers in higher administrative roles, further contributing to their social and economic upliftment.
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