Sikshashree is a pre-matric scholarship scheme in West Bengal designed to provide financial assistance to Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) students studying in Classes V to VIII. The primary goal is to reduce dropout rates among economically disadvantaged students in government and government-aided schools.
Eligibility Criteria (2026)
- Category: Only students belonging to the SC or ST communities are eligible.
- Education: Must be a regular full-time student in Classes 5, 6, 7, or 8 in a government, government-aided, or government-recognized school/madrasah.
- Residency: Must be a permanent resident of West Bengal and a day scholar (not staying in a government hostel).
- Income: The total annual family income must not exceed ₹2.5 lakh.
- Exclusivity: The student must not be receiving any other government scholarship or stipend simultaneously.
Financial Benefits
The scholarship is paid annually via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) into the student’s bank account.
- SC Students: Receive ₹750 per year for Classes V–VII and ₹800 per year for Class VIII.
- ST Students: Receive ₹800 per year for all eligible classes (V–VIII).
How to Apply
For the 2025–26 session, the application process typically involves the following steps:
- School-Level Application: Most applications are processed directly through the student’s school. Students should contact their Headmaster/Headmistress to obtain the application form.
- Online Portal: Schools and eligible students can also manage applications through the Shikshamedha Portal or the OASIS Portal.
- Mandatory ID: As of 2026, the Student Code (Banglar Shiksha) is mandatory for processing payments.
- Documents Required:
- Copy of the Caste Certificate.
- Income Certificate from a competent authority.
- Copy of Bank Passbook showing IFSC and Account Number.
- Aadhaar Card and passport-sized photograph.