Medhashree is a pre-matric scholarship scheme launched by the Government of West Bengal specifically for students belonging to the Other Backward Classes (OBC). Introduced in 2023 following the discontinuation of certain central government scholarships for these categories, it ensures continued financial support for students in the state.
Eligibility Criteria
- Target Group: Students belonging to the OBC and other minority communities.
- Grade Level: Must be regular, full-time students in Classes V to VIII.
- School Type: Studying in government, government-sponsored, or government-aided schools in West Bengal.
- Residency: Must be a permanent resident (domicile) of West Bengal.
- Income Limit: Total annual family income from all sources must not exceed ₹2.5 lakh.
- Exclusivity: Students receiving benefits from any other government scholarship scheme (like Shikshashree or Aikyashree) are not eligible for Medhashree.
Financial Benefits
- Grant Amount: Eligible students receive a grant of ₹800 per year.
- Disbursement: The amount is paid annually via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) into the student’s bank account.
Application Process
The application for the 2025–26 academic session typically follows these steps:
Submission: After online submission, a printed copy of the form along with supporting documents should be submitted to the Head of the Institution (school) for verification.
Online Application: Fresh and renewal applications can be made through the OASIS Portal or the Backward Classes Welfare Department website.
Mandatory ID: The Student Code (Banglar Shiksha) is mandatory for scholarship payment processing.
Required Documents:
- Valid OBC Caste Certificate.
- Income Certificate from a competent authority (e.g., BDO/SDO).
- Bank Passbook showing account number and IFSC (CBS enabled).
- Aadhaar Card and recent passport-sized photograph.