Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin appeals to PM Modi to raise Income Limits for SC/ST and OBC Scholarships

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to significantly raise the income ceiling for scholarships benefiting students from Scheduled Caste (SC), Scheduled Tribe (ST), and Other Backward Class (OBC) communities.

In a formal letter addressed to the Prime Minister, Stalin proposed increasing the annual income limit for SC/ST students from ₹2.5 lakh to ₹8 lakh and for OBC students from ₹3 lakh to ₹8 lakh. He argued that this revision is crucial to ensuring that more economically disadvantaged students can access much-needed financial support for their education.

Stalin underscored the importance of these scholarships in advancing social justice and reducing inequality. “Raising the income limit will empower deserving students to pursue higher education and break free from the cycle of poverty,” he stated. The Chief Minister emphasized that financial constraints should not be a barrier for talented individuals from marginalized communities.

Existing Scholarship Schemes
Currently, central government scholarships for OBC students include programs like:

• National Fellowship for OBC Students
• Central Sector Scheme of National Overseas Scholarship
• ONGC Scholarships
• Pre-Matric and Post-Matric Scholarships

These schemes provide vital financial assistance for various levels of education, enabling beneficiaries to pursue their academic goals. Stalin's recommendation to raise the income cap aims to broaden the reach of such programs, making them accessible to a larger pool of students.

The appeal has sparked discussions on the need for policy adjustments to support underprivileged students. While the central government has not yet responded to the request, the decision holds significant implications for the educational aspirations of SC/ST and OBC students across the country.

Students and educational activists are optimistic that the proposed hike will be implemented, potentially transforming the lives of thousands of young learners. As per TOI reports, as the nation awaits a response from the central government, Stalin’s appeal highlights a broader push toward equitable education and socio-economic empowerment for marginalized communities.