Chandigarh: Punjab Social Justice, Empowerment and Minorities Affairs Minister Baljit Kaur on Sunday announced the launch of the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme for Scheduled Caste (SC) students for the academic session 2026-27, reinforcing the state government’s commitment to making higher education accessible for all sections of society.
The scheme will be implemented through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP), aiming to ensure a more transparent, digital, and user-friendly application process.
Scholarship Applications Now Open on National Scholarship Portal
The minister informed that the NSP portal became operational from July 1, 2026, allowing eligible students to apply online.
She urged SC students across Punjab to apply well before the deadline and make full use of the scheme to pursue higher education without financial burden.
Key schedule for the scheme:
- Portal opened: July 1, 2026
- Last date for student applications: November 15, 2026
- Correction of defective applications: November 30, 2026
- Institution-level verification deadline: November 30, 2026
- Final verification (DNO/SNO/MNO): December 15, 2026
Focus on Education Equality and Social Justice
Minister Baljit Kaur stated that the Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, believes that financial constraints should never prevent students from accessing higher education.
She said the initiative reflects the vision of a “Rangla Punjab,” where every student gets equal opportunities for growth and development.
Government Emphasis on Skill Development and Employment
The minister highlighted that the scholarship scheme is not only aimed at financial support but also at improving employability and higher education outcomes.
She added that:
- The scheme will reduce financial stress on weaker families
- Government job and skill initiatives are helping reduce brain drain
- Merit-based opportunities are being expanded across sectors
Awareness Campaigns Across Punjab
To ensure maximum benefit, the minister directed district-level officers to conduct awareness camps in urban, rural, and remote areas so that no eligible student is left out due to lack of information.
She also instructed departments including Higher Education, Medical Education, Technical Education, School Education, and Animal Husbandry to assist students in completing applications and documentation.
The launch of the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme for SC students marks a significant step by the Punjab government toward promoting educational equality and social justice. The initiative aims to ensure that financial barriers do not hinder talented students from achieving higher education and securing better future opportunities.
