The Prime Minister Scholarship Scheme (PMSS) for the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Railway Protection Special Force (RPSF) is a government initiative to provide financial aid to the dependents of RPF/RPSF personnel. This scheme aims to encourage advanced technical and professional education among eligible beneficiaries. Administered by the Ministry of Railways and funded through the National Defense Fund, the scheme allocates 150 scholarships annually. Male recipients are granted Rs 2,500 per month, while female recipients receive Rs 3,000 per month.
This scholarship is available to a maximum of two dependents per family. Verification of applications by the regional Railway/RPSF authorities and the beneficiaries is mandatory. The scholarship covers the full duration of the program or a maximum of five years, whichever is shorter. The final approval and disbursement are based on merit rankings and endorsed by the Director General (DG) of RPF.
Overview of the PMSS RPF Scholarship
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Nodal Agency | National Defense Fund, Ministry of Railways |
| Scheme Name | Prime Minister Scholarship Scheme for RPF/RPSF |
| Total Seats | 150 per year |
| Monthly Remuneration | Rs 2,500 for males, Rs 3,000 for females |
| Scheme Open Until | November 30, 2024 |
| Official Website | scholarships.gov.in |
Eligibility Criteria PMSS RPF Scholarship
Applicants must meet the following requirements to qualify for the PMSS RPF Scholarship:
- Beneficiary Status: The applicant must be a dependent child or spouse of an ex-RPF/RPSF personnel or a widow of a deceased member.
- Educational Program: Enrollment in professional or technical degree courses such as B.E., B.Tech, MBBS, MCA, B.Pharma, or B.Ed is required. The institution must be recognized by bodies like AICTE, UGC, MCI, or NCTE.
- Minimum Academic Performance: Candidates must have achieved at least 60% marks in their most recent examination (Class 12, diploma, or graduate degree).
Documents Required PMSS RPF Scholarship
For Fresh Applicants
- Service Certificate: Issued by the respective office for Category IV applicants (as per Annexure II).
- Pension Payment Order (PPO): Copy required for Categories I, II, and III applicants, along with the discharge certificate or service book.
- Educational Qualification Proof: Scanned copies of mark sheets or certificates from the most recent educational milestone.
For Renewal Applicants
- Updated Service Certificate: Issued by the serving personnel’s office for Category IV applicants (as per Annexure II).
- Academic Records: Scanned copies of recent mark sheets or documentation verifying promotion to the next class or grade.
Benefits of the Scholarship
- Male students receive a monthly allowance of Rs 2,500, while female students are entitled to Rs 3,000 per month.
- The financial aid covers tuition fees and other academic expenses for the full course duration or up to five years, whichever is shorter.
How to Apply for the PMSS RPF Scholarship?
Eligible students can apply for the scholarship through the official National Scholarship Portal. Follow the steps below to complete the application process:
- Registration:
- Visit the official website scholarships.gov.in.
- Click the ‘Apply Now’ button, then select ‘Register’. Enter the required details for registration.
- New Application:
- Navigate to the ‘Applicant Corner’ and select ‘New Registration’.
- Agree to the terms and conditions, then click ‘Continue’.
- Mobile Number Verification:
- Enter your mobile number, captcha code, and the OTP received via SMS. Click ‘Submit’.
- Complete Registration:
- Provide all required personal and academic information, then click ‘Save & Register’ to complete your registration.
- Filling the Application:
- Log in using your Application ID and password.
- Access the ‘Fresh Application’ section, complete the necessary fields, upload all required documents, and submit your application.
Selection and Approval Process of PMSS RPF Scholarship
- Applications are verified by the regional Railway/RPSF authorities and reviewed by the educational institution.
- Merit-based rankings are prepared and endorsed by the Director General of RPF.
- Approved candidates receive the scholarship amount directly in their registered bank accounts.
Key Dates
- The last date to apply for the PMSS RPF Scholarship is November 30, 2024.
For additional information, visit the National Scholarship Portal or contact your institution’s scholarship office. This scholarship is a vital opportunity for eligible dependents of RPF/RPSF personnel to achieve their educational aspirations.
FAQs
Q1: Can a student apply if they are already receiving another scholarship?
Ans: No, students receiving financial aid from other government scholarships or schemes are not eligible to apply for the PMSS RPF Scholarship.
Q2: What happens if I fail to meet the renewal criteria?
Ans: If renewal criteria are not met, the scholarship may be discontinued. Ensure academic performance and timely submission of required documents.