Introduction: Bridging the Educational Divide for Tribal Communities

Education is one of the most powerful tools for empowering marginalized communities, and the Government of Odisha has consistently taken progressive steps to uplift its tribal population. One such landmark initiative is the Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Scheme, launched in 2024 to financially support Scheduled Tribe (ST) students and encourage them to pursue secondary and higher education.

Launched in memory of freedom fighter Madho Singh, this initiative is a tribute to Odisha’s rich tribal legacy and a bold step toward reducing dropout rates among tribal youth. With over ₹156 crore allocated, the scheme promises to be a game-changer for over 3 lakh students across the state.

Who Was Shahid Madho Singh?

Madho Singh, a revered tribal freedom fighter from Ghess village in Bargarh district, played a crucial role during India’s First War of Independence in 1857. As a close associate of Veer Surendra Sai, he led a strong resistance against the British and laid down his life for India’s freedom. The naming of the scheme in his honor not only commemorates his bravery but also aims to inspire future generations of tribal youth.

🔗 Read more about Madho Singh’s legacy

Overview of Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Yojana

ComponentDetails
Scheme NameShahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Yojana
Launched ByGovernment of Odisha
Launch Year2024
Target GroupScheduled Tribe (ST) students
Class Levels BenefitedClass IX and Class XI
Benefit₹5,000 one-time financial incentive
Budget Allocation₹156 crore
Estimated Beneficiaries3 lakh ST students
Disbursement ModeDirect Benefit Transfer (DBT)

Objectives of the Scheme

The Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Scheme aims to address long-standing challenges faced by tribal students, especially during the transition between middle and secondary education.

Key Objectives:

  • ✅ Reduce Dropout Rates among tribal students at critical stages like Class IX and XI.

  • ✅ Encourage Higher Education Enrollment among the ST population.

  • ✅ Provide Incidental Support to meet educational and personal expenses.

  • ✅ Honor a Tribal Icon and instill pride in tribal heritage and history.

Eligibility Criteria

To ensure the benefits reach the intended population, the Odisha government has defined clear eligibility criteria:

  1. Scheduled Tribe (ST) Certificate – The student must belong to a recognized ST community.

  2. Annual Family Income – Should not exceed ₹2.5 lakh.

  3. Educational Institution – Must be enrolled in a government or government-aided school in Odisha.

  4. Class Level – Must be newly admitted in Class IX or Class XI during the current academic year.

🔗 Apply via Odisha State Scholarship Portal

Benefits of Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Yojana

💰 ₹5,000 One-Time Financial Incentive

The most significant benefit of the scheme is the one-time grant of ₹5,000, credited directly to students’ bank accounts via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). This amount is intended to cover:

  • Cost of stationery and notebooks

  • School uniforms or daily wear

  • Transportation expenses

  • Mobile data and digital learning tools

  • Any incidental educational expense

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

Eligible students can apply online through the Odisha State Scholarship Portal with the help of their school authorities.

📝 Application Process:

  1. School Verification: The Headmaster or Principal recommends the student.

  2. Online Registration: Fill out the form on scholarship.odisha.gov.in.

  3. Upload Documents:

    • ST Certificate

    • Income Certificate

    • Aadhaar Card

    • Bank account details

  4. Verification by District Welfare Officer (DWO).

  5. Disbursement: Upon approval, ₹5,000 is transferred directly to the student’s bank account.

Required Documents

Before applying, ensure the following documents are ready:

  • ✅ Caste Certificate (ST)

  • ✅ Income Certificate (Less than ₹2.5 lakh/year)

  • ✅ Aadhaar Card

  • ✅ Bank Passbook Copy

  • ✅ Recent Passport-size Photograph

  • ✅ Admission proof for Class IX or XI

Impact of the Scheme So Far

Although the scheme is newly launched, early data shows strong enthusiasm from tribal communities. According to Odisha’s ST & SC Development Department:

  • 💼 Over 1.2 lakh students have already applied in the first quarter of 2024-25.

  • 💸 ₹60 crore disbursed in the first phase of implementation.

  • 📊 Dropout rate for tribal students reduced by 15% in pilot districts.

🔗 More on implementation progress

Why This Scheme Matters

Odisha has a tribal population of over 22%, one of the highest in India. These communities often face social, economic, and geographic barriers to education. The Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Scheme serves as both a catalyst for educational mobility and a symbol of cultural recognition.

It is aligned with larger national goals like:

  • NEP 2020 (National Education Policy)

  • UN SDG Goal 4: Quality Education

  • Tribal Sub-Plan Strategy of the Government of India

Conclusion: A Bold Step Toward Inclusive Education

The Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Yojana is more than just a financial aid program—it's a tribute, a recognition, and a commitment. A tribute to a legendary tribal freedom fighter, recognition of the challenges faced by tribal students, and a commitment by the Government of Odisha to ensure that no child is left behind in their educational journey.

As Odisha continues to lead by example in inclusive governance, this scheme holds the potential to transform the academic landscape for thousands of tribal students and build a generation that is empowered, educated, and proud of their roots.

Read about Swayam Scheme from the Odisha Government - here

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