The Banishree Scholarship is a welfare-focused education support scheme introduced by the Government of Odisha to assist students with disabilities in continuing their academic journey without financial stress. The scholarship is meant for students who face physical or visual challenges and belong to economically weaker families. By providing monthly financial assistance, the scheme ensures that education remains accessible from primary schooling to postgraduate and professional studies.
The core aim of the Banishree Scholarship is not limited to covering educational expenses. It focuses on empowering students with special needs by encouraging skill development, academic continuity, and long-term independence. Whether a student is enrolled in a regular school, college, special institution, or even pursuing technical or vocational training, this scheme offers structured support based on their level of education.
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Registration for the Banishree Scholarship is currently ongoing, and eligible students are encouraged to apply through their respective institutions. The scholarship covers tuition-related needs, learning support, and additional allowances for visually or orthopedically challenged students. With direct bank transfers, transparent rules, and inclusive coverage, the scheme plays a vital role in building equal educational opportunities across Odisha.
Who Can Apply for the Banishree Scholarship?
Applicants must meet specific conditions to qualify for the Banishree Scholarship. These criteria are designed to ensure that assistance reaches genuinely deserving students.
Eligibility Requirements:
- The applicant must be a permanent resident of Odisha
- Must be enrolled as a regular student in a recognized institution
- Annual family income should not exceed ₹60,000
- Applicant should not be receiving any other state or central government scholarship
- A valid disability certificate issued by a Medical Board is mandatory
- Scholarship continues as long as the student remains enrolled and maintains attendance, even if they fail an academic year
This inclusive approach ensures continuity in education without penalizing students for academic setbacks.
Courses and Education Levels Covered Under the Scheme
The Banishree Scholarship supports students across almost every stage of education. It is not restricted to formal schooling alone.
Eligible Education Categories:
- Primary education (Class I to V)
- Middle and high school (Class VI to X)
- Higher secondary education (Class XI & XII)
- Undergraduate and postgraduate courses
- Special schools registered under the PWD Act (non-grant-in-aid)
- Distance learning through recognized universities
- Technical, vocational, and professional training programs
This wide coverage makes the Banishree Scholarship one of the most comprehensive disability-focused schemes in Odisha.
Monthly Allowance and Financial Benefits Explained
The amount awarded under the Banishree Scholarship depends on the student’s education level and study location.
📊 Monthly Scholarship Allowance (Inside Odisha)
| Education Level | Monthly Amount |
|---|---|
| Primary School | ₹400 |
| Middle & High School | ₹500 |
| +2 / +3 College | ₹600 |
| Postgraduate | ₹700 |
| Technical / Vocational Training | ₹700 |
📊 Allowance for Studying Outside Odisha
| Category | Monthly Amount |
|---|---|
| Courses not available in Odisha | ₹700 |
Additional Allowances for Special Needs
Beyond the standard scholarship amount, extra support is provided to students who require assistance due to the nature of their disability.
Reader’s Allowance (Visually Impaired Students)
| Education Level | Amount |
|---|---|
| Primary Classes | ₹200 |
| Middle & High School | ₹300 |
| Higher Studies | ₹400 |
Transport Allowance
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Orthopedically handicapped students with 75% or more disability | ₹200 |
These allowances significantly reduce daily learning and mobility challenges.
How the Scholarship Amount Is Paid
The Banishree Scholarship amount is transferred directly into the student’s bank account to ensure transparency and accountability.
Payment Rules:
- Payments are made in two installments per academic year
- Students above 18 years must have an individual bank account
- Minors must open a joint account with a parent or guardian
- Attendance verification is mandatory before release
- Payment starts from the month of admission and continues until the final exam month
- Absence of up to three months on medical grounds does not affect payments
Documents Required for Application
Applicants must submit the following documents along with their application form:
- Disability certificate issued by a recognized Medical Board
- Income certificate from Tahasildar or higher authority
- Marksheet of the last qualifying examination
- Bank account details
- For BPL students, income certificate is not required
Incomplete documentation may lead to rejection, so accuracy is crucial.
Step-by-Step Application Process for Banishree Scholarship
The application process is conducted offline through the educational institution.
Application Steps:
- Collect the Banishree Scholarship application form (Annexure I)
- Fill in personal, academic, disability, and income details
- Attach all required documents
- Submit the form to the Head of the Institution
- Institution verifies the details
- Application is forwarded to the sanctioning authority
- Bank account is opened if required
- Scholarship amount is credited in installments
Students are advised to keep copies of all submitted documents.
Important Rules and Conditions You Should Know
- Changing schools or institutions does not cancel the scholarship
- Any dispute related to sanction can be appealed to the District Collector
- The government reserves the right to amend guidelines
- Additional support remains available for visually and orthopedically challenged students
Important Dates at a Glance
| Event | Status |
|---|---|
| Application Start | Ongoing |
| Application Deadline | As per institution notice |
| Scholarship Disbursement | Twice per academic year |
