Did 460 Students Study Abroad Under the National Overseas Scholarship in the Last Five Years?
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Synopsis
Learn how the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme has enabled 460 students from marginalized communities to study abroad over the past five years, with increasing funding and fluctuating beneficiary numbers, as shared by the Indian government.
Key Takeaways
- The National Overseas Scholarship has supported 460 students in studying abroad.
- Funding has increased significantly from Rs 30 crore to Rs 95 crore in the last five years.
- Maharashtra records the highest beneficiaries and expenditures.
- Provisional award letters help track candidates for future studies.
- The scheme aims to empower marginalized communities through education.
New Delhi, Aug 19 (NationPress) The National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Scheme initiated by the Indian government, which seeks to assist students from marginalized communities, has gained attention following recent disclosures by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. In a written response from Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Ramdas Athawale, on August 19, insights into the scheme's beneficiaries and funding over the past five years were revealed.
The data indicates that between the fiscal years 2020-21 and 2025-26, a total of 725 provisional award letters were distributed.
For the year 2025-2026, letters have been issued to 106 candidates, although they have not yet traveled abroad for their studies.
Out of this group, 473 candidates received final award letters, leading to 460 beneficiaries who successfully traveled overseas to utilize the scholarship.
The number of students who have gone abroad has varied, reaching a high of 114 in 2023-24 and decreasing to 79 in 2024-25.
Moreover, funding for the scheme has steadily increased from Rs 30 crore in 2020-21 to Rs 95 crore in 2024-25.
In total, the expenditure over these five years (2020-21 to 2024-25) has reached an impressive Rs 267.08 crore.
Notably, Maharashtra has consistently recorded the highest number of beneficiaries and expenditures, with 68 beneficiaries and Rs 43.65 crore spent in 2023-24 alone. Other states contributing significantly include Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat.
The government has clarified that it does not maintain district-wise data.
When questioned about the duration for fund disbursement, the Ministry explained that funds are allocated to Indian Missions abroad via Letters of Authorisation (LoA), which are then responsible for distributing the funds to students, universities, or institutions.
To enhance awareness, the government advertises in newspapers and communicates with State and Union Territory Social Welfare departments. Measures for addressing grievances include sending officers for document verification and liaising with Embassies for Embassy Verification Reports (EVR).
The government also covers round-trip airfare on the shortest route in economy class to support travel.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the government's ongoing efforts to empower marginalized communities through educational opportunities. The increasing funding and support for the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme reflects a commitment to enhancing accessibility and providing valuable international experiences for students across India.
NationPress
08/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the National Overseas Scholarship Scheme?
The National Overseas Scholarship Scheme aims to assist students from marginalized communities in pursuing higher education abroad.
How many students have benefited from the scheme?
In the last five years, a total of 460 students have traveled abroad under this scholarship.
Which state had the highest number of beneficiaries?
Maharashtra consistently had the highest number of beneficiaries and expenditures under the scheme.
What is the total expenditure of the scheme over five years?
The total expenditure from 2020-21 to 2024-25 amounts to Rs 267.08 crore.
How does the government disburse funds to students?
Funds are released to Indian Missions abroad via Letters of Authorisation, which then provide the funds to students and institutions.
