The Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana is an educational support scheme launched by the Government of Gujarat to encourage students — especially those choosing the Science stream — to continue their education beyond Class 10. This scholarship addresses financial barriers that often deter students from pursuing science subjects at the higher secondary level (Classes 11 and 12). The scheme is part of a broader effort by the state to improve enrollment, reduce dropouts, and develop a future-ready skilled workforce in science and technology.
The scheme works alongside other student support programs like the Namo Lakshmi Yojana, which focuses on promoting girls’ education. The Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana specifically targets students who choose science after Class 10, offering financial assistance to help with educational expenses, encourage academic continuation, and motivate students to pursue careers in fields such as engineering, medicine, research, and technology.
Overview of Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana |
| Launched By | Government of Gujarat |
| Target Group | Students of Classes 11 and 12 choosing Science |
| Education Level | Higher Secondary (Science Stream) |
| Selection Basis | Academic Merit (Class 10 result) + Financial Eligibility |
| Benefit | Scholarship up to ₹25,000 over 2 years |
Objective of the Scheme
The Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana aims to:
- Encourage more students to opt for the Science stream after Class 10
- Reduce dropout rates at the higher secondary level
- Support financially disadvantaged but academically capable students
- Enhance enrollment in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields
- Build a skilled scientific and technical workforce aligned with future employment needs
The scheme reflects the Gujarat government’s commitment to strengthening education, particularly in science and technology, to meet national development goals.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana, students must meet the following requirements:
- Must have passed Class 10 Board Examinations with at least 50% marks or more.
- Must be enrolled in science subjects (Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, etc.) for Classes 11 and 12 in schools recognised by the Gujarat Secondary and Higher Secondary Education Board (GSHSEB) or the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE).
- Must belong to a family with an annual income below a specified limit, generally ₹6 lakh or less (this may vary depending on whether the student has studied in government or self-financed schools).
- Must be a resident of Gujarat.
These criteria are designed to prioritise students who are both academically capable and financially deserving.
Scholarship Benefits
Selected students receive financial assistance totaling ₹25,000 over two years of their higher secondary education.
The benefit structure typically includes:
- Class 11 Assistance: ₹10,000 per academic year
- Class 12 Assistance: ₹15,000 per academic year
- Total Scholarship Value: ₹25,000 (₹10,000 + ₹15,000)
Payments are often disbursed in instalments (e.g., monthly or semester-based through Direct Benefit Transfer into a bank account), helping students cover tuition, books, laboratory costs, and other academic expenses.
Scholarship Benefits Table
| Benefit Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Class 11 Support | ₹10,000 (per academic year) |
| Class 12 Support | ₹15,000 (per academic year) |
| Total Scholarship | ₹25,000 over 2 years |
| Mode of Payment | Direct Bank Transfer (DBT) |
| Purpose of Funds | Tuition, books, study materials, science-related expenses |
Application and Selection Process
The application process for the Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana is coordinated through schools and education authorities rather than individual student portals:
Application Steps
- Identification by School
Eligible students are identified by their school based on Class 10 marks and science stream enrolment. - Submission of Details
Required student information and documents are submitted through official school portals, such as the Child Tracking System (CTS) and the Namo Saraswati Portal. - Verification by Authorities
School and education department officials verify eligibility, attendance, and financial criteria. - Final Approval and Disbursement
Once verified, the scholarship amount is transferred via DBT to the bank account of the student or their guardian.
Documents Required
Typical documents include:
- Class 10 Marksheet or Board Certificate
- Proof of enrolment in Class 11 Science stream
- Income certificate (showing annual family income)
- Aadhaar card and identity proof
- Bank account details for DBT
These help authorities assess eligibility and ensure accurate disbursement.
Importance of the Scheme
The Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana has become an influential programme for:
- Promoting STEM education among students who might be financially unable to pursue science streams.
- Increasing enrollment rates in science classes, often leading to better career prospects in engineering, medicine, and technology sectors.
- Helping families manage education-related expenses in a crucial transitional stage between secondary and higher secondary education.
Impact studies have shown several percentage increases in science enrollment and continuation growth since the scheme’s implementation.
Comparison with Other Student Support Schemes
| Parameter | Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana | Typical Secondary Education Scholarships |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Science Stream Support (Classes 11–12) | General academic merit or need |
| Target Group | Students opting for science | All students meeting criteria |
| Benefit Amount | Up to ₹25,000 | Varies by scheme |
| Eligibility | Class 10 marks + science admission | Varies (often based on merit/income) |
| Mode of Implementation | School-led, DBT | Government portal or direct application |
Challenges and Considerations
Although impactful, the scheme faces typical implementation challenges such as:
- Ensuring timely DBT transfers to beneficiaries’ accounts
- Monitoring attendance and eligibility compliance
- Keeping accurate school-wise records for disbursement
Efforts such as digital tracking systems (CTS, dedicated portals) aim to improve transparency and efficiency.
Conclusion
The Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana is a significant scholarship initiative by the Gujarat government that motivates students to pursue science education after Class 10 by providing financial support. With a benefit of up to ₹25,000 over two years and a focus on academically capable but financially challenged students, the scheme plays an important role in promoting STEM education, reducing dropout rates, and building future-ready talent. Through coordinated school-based implementation and direct benefit transfer, the scheme ensures that students receive timely support to continue their education and career journey.
FAQs
- Who is eligible for the Namo Saraswati Vigyan Sadhana Yojana?
Students who pass Class 10 with at least 50% marks and opt for the science stream in Classes 11 and 12 are eligible. - How much financial assistance does the scheme provide?
The scheme offers up to ₹25,000 over two years (₹10,000 in Class 11 and ₹15,000 in Class 12). - How are scholarship funds disbursed?
Scholarship amounts are transferred through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) into the student’s or guardian’s bank account.
