Karnataka Government Increases Incentive Funds for SC, ST Candidates Studying in IITs, IIMs, IISc, and NITs
In a significant move aimed at supporting students from Scheduled Castes (SC) and Scheduled Tribes (ST), the Karnataka state government has announced that incentive funds for SC and ST candidates enrolled in prestigious national educational institutes like IITs, IIMs, IISc, and NITs will be increased.
This decision, revealed by Karnataka’s Social Welfare Minister, H C Mahadevappa, is expected to provide a substantial boost to the educational aspirations of students from these communities.
Increased Incentive Funds
As part of this new initiative, the incentive fund for SC and ST students studying at premier institutions has been raised from Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 2 lakh.
This additional financial support is aimed at easing the financial burdens on students pursuing higher education in fields such as engineering, management, and sciences.
By increasing the fund, the Karnataka government hopes to ensure that students from marginalized communities can access quality education without being hindered by financial constraints.
Minister Mahadevappa stated that the increase in the incentive fund will contribute significantly to the academic success of students from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, adding that, “This change will pave the way for higher educational achievements of students from scheduled communities.”
 This move is seen as part of the broader efforts to provide equal opportunities for all students, regardless of their social or economic backgrounds.
One-Time Aid for High-Achieving SC Students
In addition to the increased incentive funds for students in IITs, IIMs, IISc, and NITs, another initiative has been introduced by the Karnataka government for students pursuing medical education.
A one-time aid of Rs. 25 lakh will be provided to SC students who achieve over 95% marks in their Pre-University Course (PUC) examination and secure a management quota seat in the MBBS course through the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET).
This financial support is intended to encourage academic excellence and provide assistance to high-achieving students aspiring to pursue a career in medicine.
Special Incentives for SC Students in MBBS Courses
In addition to the one-time aid for students securing management quota seats in MBBS, Rs. 25 lakh will be offered to SC students pursuing MBBS who score more than 60% marks in their first year of the program.
 This initiative is designed to motivate students from Scheduled Castes to excel in their studies and pursue careers in the medical field, which has often been inaccessible to many due to financial barriers.
Fostering a Contribution to Nation-Building
The Karnataka government’s initiatives reflect a commitment not only to providing financial support but also to ensuring that SC and ST students actively contribute to the nation’s progress.
SC and ST students in institutions like IIT, IIM, and IISc have been urged by Minister Mahadevappa to leverage the opportunities provided by these top-tier institutes to engage in nation-building activities.
 It has been emphasized that, upon completing their education, these students will have the potential to play a pivotal role in contributing to the development of a prosperous and powerful India.
