Labour Card Scholarship: For Children of Unorganized Workers

In an endeavor to uplift the educational prospects of children belonging to unorganized sectors, the Ministry of Labour & Employment has launched the Labour Card Scholarship. This initiative aims to provide financial assistance to parents working in sectors such as Beedi, IOMC (Iron Ore Manganese Ore Chrome Ore), and LSDM (Limestone, Dolomite, Manganese, and Mica).

The scholarship program enables these parents to enroll their children in schools, institutes, or colleges and offers scholarship amounts based on the student’s class, course, or degree. 

The Labour Card Scholarship

The Labour Card Scholarship is a significant step towards empowering children of workers employed in the unorganized sector. The unorganized sector comprises industries or occupations that lack formal employment benefits, social security, and regulatory frameworks. Recognizing the challenges faced by such workers, the scholarship program aims to support their children’s education and provide equal opportunities for a better future.

Website is https://scholarships.gov.in/

List of Covered Scholarships by the Ministry of Labour & Employment

1. Scholarship for Primary and Secondary Education

The Labour Card Scholarship program covers scholarships for primary and secondary education. It aims to support the schooling expenses of children from families working in sectors such as Beedi, IOMC (Iron Ore Manganese Ore Chrome Ore), LSDM (Limestone, Dolomite, Manganese, and Mica), and other unorganized sectors.

The scholarship provides financial aid for tuition fees, books, stationery, uniforms, and other educational materials required during primary and secondary schooling.

2. Scholarship for Higher Education

The Labour Card Scholarship program also includes scholarships for higher education. These scholarships are designed to assist students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in various fields. The financial aid offered under this category covers tuition fees, study materials, research expenses, and other relevant costs associated with higher education.

3. Professional Course Scholarships

In addition to primary and higher education scholarships, the Labour Card Scholarship program extends its support to students pursuing professional courses. This category includes scholarships for vocational training, skill development programs, and professional certification courses.

The aim is to equip students with practical skills and enhance their employability in industries relevant to their parents’ occupations in the unorganized sectors.

4. Technical and Engineering Scholarships

Recognizing the importance of technology and engineering education, the Ministry of Labour & Employment includes scholarships for these fields under the Labour Card Scholarship program. These scholarships cater to students pursuing technical diplomas, engineering degrees, and related courses. The financial assistance provided covers tuition fees, laboratory expenses, project costs, and other necessary resources.

5. Research and Innovation Scholarships

To encourage research and innovation among students, the Labour Card Scholarship program includes scholarships for research-oriented degrees and projects. These scholarships aim to support students pursuing doctoral degrees or engaged in scientific research, innovation, and development activities.

6. Sports and Cultural Scholarships

The Ministry of Labour & Employment also recognizes the importance of sports and cultural activities in a well-rounded education. As part of the Labour Card Scholarship program, scholarships are provided to students displaying exceptional talent and achievements in sports and cultural fields.

These scholarships help cover coaching fees, training expenses, participation costs, and other necessary resources to nurture and support their talents.

7. Merit-Based Scholarships

To encourage academic excellence, the Labour Card Scholarship program includes merit-based scholarships. These scholarships are awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements in their respective fields. Financial aid provided rewards and motivates students to excel further in their education.

8. Special Category Scholarships

Under the Labour Card Scholarship program, the Ministry of Labour & Employment may also introduce special category scholarships. These scholarships are designed to address specific needs or challenges faced by certain groups of students. Examples of special-category scholarships may include scholarships for differently-abled students, scholarships for girls’ education, or scholarships for students from marginalized communities.

Eligibility Criteria for the Labour Card Scholarship

To be eligible for the Labour Card Scholarship, applicants must meet certain criteria. While specific requirements may vary based on regional guidelines, the following are general eligibility criteria:

a. Parent’s Occupation: 

The applicant’s parent(s) must be engaged in occupations falling under the unorganized sector, such as Beedi work, IOMC, or LSDM. A valid labor card issued by the relevant government authority is often required.

b. Income Limit: 

The family income should fall within the prescribed limits defined by the scholarship program. This ensures that financial aid reaches those who genuinely need it.

c. Academic Performance: 

The student’s academic performance may also be considered during the scholarship selection process. Demonstrated commitment to education and satisfactory grades can enhance the chances of being awarded a scholarship.

Benefits of the Labour Card Scholarship

The Labour Card Scholarship offers a range of benefits to deserving students from the unorganized sector, enabling them to pursue their educational aspirations. Some key advantages of this scholarship include:

a. Financial Assistance: 

The primary benefit of the Labour Card Scholarship is the provision of financial aid. The scholarship program covers various educational expenses, such as tuition fees, books, study materials, uniforms, and other necessities.

b. Access to Education: 

By providing financial support, the scholarship program ensures that children from the unorganized sector have access to quality education. This empowers them to break free from the cycle of poverty and pursue their dreams.

c. Flexibility in Scholarship Amounts: 

The scholarship amounts offered under the Labour Card Scholarship are often determined based on the student’s class, course, or degree. This flexible approach ensures that different educational levels are adequately catered to, addressing the specific needs of the students.

d. Skill Development: 

The Labour Card Scholarship recognizes the importance of skill development for sustainable employment. Therefore, some scholarship programs provide additional support for vocational training or skill-building courses, equipping students with relevant skills for future career opportunities.

Application Process for the Labour Card Scholarship

To apply for the Labour Card Scholarship, interested candidates need to follow a prescribed application process. Though the specific steps may vary depending on the region, the general process involves the following:

a. Gather Required Documents: 

Applicants must gather the necessary documents, including proof of parent’s occupation in the unorganized sector, labor card details, income certificate, academic records, and any other documents specified by the scholarship program.

b. Complete the Application Form: 

Fill out the application form accurately, providing all the required information, including personal details, parent’s occupation, income details, and educational background.

c. Attach Supporting Documents: 

Along with the application form, attach the supporting documents as per the guidelines. Ensure that all documents are properly attested or verified to avoid any discrepancies.

Some of the important documents need to apply online for this scholarship are as follows:-

Aadhar Card

DOB Certificate

Residence Certificate

Copy of the Identity card of the worker

Bank Account Passbook

Passing Certificate/Mark Sheet of previous Academic Year

Mobile Number

Email ID

Annual Income Certificate

d. Submit the Application: 

Once the application form and supporting documents are ready, submit them to the designated authority within the given timeframe. Late or incomplete submissions may lead to disqualification.

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