Education is a powerful tool for a bright future, and it has special significance for the children of ex-servicemen. These families often face unique challenges as they transition from a disciplined military lifestyle to civilian life. To support these challenges and honour the sacrifices of our brave servicemen, the Indian Government has launched a number of initiatives, one of which is the Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme (PMSS) .
PMSS scholarship not only provides financial aid but is a token of gratitude for the families who have served the nation. But when it comes to big families, a common question arises – “Can two children from the same household avail the benefit of this scholarship?” This is a valid concern as the cost of education is increasing and where there are more than one child, the families want clarity regarding the rules of the schemes.
In this blog, we will explore PMSS scholarship in detail and specifically discuss whether families with more than one child are eligible or not. We will break down the guidelines and try to give clear answers to this frequently asked question. Stay tuned!
What is PMSS Scholarship?
The full form of PMSS is Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme , which is a very special and beneficial initiative of the Indian government. This scheme has been created for those families whose family members have given a part of their life in the service of the country. It aims to promote and support the education of the children of ex-servicemen.
This scholarship becomes a financial backbone for children who want to pursue professional courses – like engineering, medicine, management or pharmacy. Through this, the government supports them financially, so that their dream is not compromised due to education.
The main objective of this scheme is to make the life of the families of soldiers a little easier and to provide a better future to their children. PMSS scholarship is a recognition of the sacrifices that an ex-serviceman and his family make for the country.
Because of this, this scheme is not just a means of benefit but also becomes a source of respect, which shows the country’s gratitude towards the families of the brave soldiers of the country.
Eligibility Criteria for PMSS Scholarship
Applying for the PMSS scholarship can be a dream come true, but it is important to understand its specific eligibility criteria. Here we are focusing on the important conditions that ensure that only the right and deserving candidates can benefit from this scheme.
1. Who can apply?
- This scholarship is for the dependent children of ex-servicemen and Coast Guard personnel .
- Biological, legally adopted and stepchildren are also included in dependent children.
- Candidates must secure minimum 60% marks in 10th and 12th grade . Aggregate marks are a very critical factor in this process.
2. Which courses are covered?
The main focus of PMSS is on professional and technical courses. Here are the courses that come under this scholarship:
- Engineering (BE/B.Tech)
- Medical courses (MBBS, BDS, BAMS, BHMS, etc.)
- Management courses (MBA, BBA)
- Pharmacy
- B.Sc Nursing
- MCA and other similar professional fields.
But keep in mind, general degree courses like BA, B.Sc or B.Com are not eligible under this scheme.
3. Specific Conditions for Ex-Servicemen
- The applicants who are eligible for this scheme, their guardians should be retired personnel of the Armed Forces .
- Guardians are either retired, discharged as ex-servicemen, martyred or disabled during military service.
- If a child’s education gets interrupted due to the financial condition of a serviceman, then this scholarship comes in handy and provides them fair opportunities.
4. Age and Attempts Condition
- Students of first year of direct admission can apply for scholarship.
- This facility is not available for distance learning and correspondence courses.
- This means that the student must be enrolled in a regular full-time course in a recognised institution .
The foundation of PMSS scholarship is to help those deserving students whose parents have given their all for the country. Even the eligibility rules have been made with the thought that there should be real upliftment of those families. Understanding the eligibility carefully and complying with all the criteria is an important process so that the application is successful.
Can 2 Children of an Ex-Serviceman Apply for PMSS Scholarship?
This question often arises in the families of ex-servicemen whether two children from the same family can apply for PMSS scholarship. Let’s end this confusion and explain the rules of the scheme clearly.
Are both children eligible?
The rules of PMSS scholarship are very specific, and unfortunately only one child from a family can get this scholarship . The purpose of the scheme is to provide its benefits to as many families as possible, hence this restriction has been imposed.
If an ex-serviceman has two or more children who have applied for a scholarship, then only one student’s application will be considered . To ensure that maximum families can avail the benefit of financial aid, this policy has been included in the scheme.
If a child gets a scholarship then?
One more important thing which is worth knowing – if one sibling is already getting PMSS and he discontinues the scholarship for any reason (either due to low marks or dropping of course), then the other sibling will not be eligible for this scheme. Only a single use case is allowed for a family , whether it is ongoing or has been discontinued.
How does the scheme manage the case of two children?
The selection process of PMSS scheme is very systematic and transparent:
- Applicants are selected on the basis of priority list , in which the category of ex-servicemen and level of sacrifice are considered.
- If more children of a family have applied, then their application is rejected during review, and the remaining applications are given priority.
What should you pay attention to?
- While filling the application, ensure that only one member of the family is applying. Often rejection happens due to misunderstanding of this eligibility clause.
- A smart decision would be to give the most eligible and deserving students among their families an opportunity to apply.
The PMSS scholarship policy, although restrictive in this case, ensures that as many families as possible get the benefit. If multiple siblings in your family are eligible, it is always important to carefully understand the eligibility criteria and guidelines first. A family can provide support to only one student through the scheme, so that equity and fairness are maintained for all families.
Application Process for PMSS Scholarship
Applying for a PMSS scholarship can seem a little daunting, but it’s much easier if you have a clear roadmap of the process. Here we’ll cover step-by-step instructions, required documents and tips for a successful application so you can file your application confidently.
Step by Step Guide to Apply
Step 1: Visit the website
First of all, you have to go to the official website for PMSS scholarship. The registration and application process of this scheme takes place on the official portal of KSB (Kendriya Sainik Board) .
URL of the official website is – www.ksb.gov.in
Step 2: Create an account
If you are new on this portal:
- Click on New Registration option.
- Create a login credential for yourself after filling in all the required information.
- It will be necessary to verify the OTP received on the email and mobile number.
If your account is already created, then login directly and click on “PMSS Scholarship Form” option.
Step 3: Fill the application form
While filling the application form, the following details have to be filled:
- Personal details (Name, DOB, Address)
- Parent’s service details (Service number, rank, and unit details)
- Educational details (School/College name, course information)
- Make proper entries of marks and admission confirmation.
Step 4: Upload documents
Submission of documents is an essential part of the application. Keep in mind that all the files should be clear and precise. The following documents have to be uploaded:
- Ex-serviceman’s discharge certificate
- Student’s Aadhaar card and DOB certificate
- 10th and 12th mark sheet
- Latest fee receipt
- Bank passbook details (account in the name of the student)
- Passport-size photo
- Bonafide certificate which will be issued by your enrolled university/institute
Step 5: Submit and Track Application
Double-check the form and documents, and once everything seems correct, forward your application by clicking on the “Submit” button.
- After submission, you can track the status of the application by going to “Track Application” section.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Cross-Check the Eligibility Criteria – Before submitting, ensure that you meet all the eligibility conditions.
- The format of the documents should be correct – All documents should be in PDF form, and the file size should be within the mentioned limits.
- Keep in mind the timeline – It is important to submit the application within the deadlines. Missing the dates can be the reason for rejection of any letter.
- The data should be absolutely accurate – The information you are filling in the form should match with your documents.
- Keep the contact information valid – Updates come on mobile and email, so it is important that they are active and valid.
The application process of PMSS scholarship is systematic and user-friendly, you just have to pay attention to the instructions and guidelines. This scheme is a golden opportunity for the families of ex-servicemen to fulfill the dreams of their children, so apply with full preparation by avoiding small mistakes in this process!
Conclusion
PMSS scholarship is a wonderful initiative that provides financial support to the families of ex-servicemen. But to take full advantage of it, it is very important to understand the eligibility rules and guidelines. As we saw in the blog, it is not possible for two children of the same family to get scholarship under this scheme. Only one child gets this facility, which ensures that support reaches maximum families.
The eligibility criteria, list of courses and rules of the application process should be clear so that you avoid any common mistakes. With proper planning and responsible decision-making, you can choose the best pathway for your family.
Finally, remember that through education you can give new wings to your dreams. If you are eligible, use PMSS scholarship as an opportunity and create a bright and secure future for your children. Jai Hind!
FAQs
Q1. What is the PMSS Scholarship for?
PMSS scholarship is for dependent children of ex-servicemen and Coast Guard personnel who wish to pursue professional or technical courses.
Q2. Which courses are eligible for scholarship?
Only professional and technical courses like engineering, medical, management, pharmacy, and nursing are eligible. General degree courses (BA/B.Sc/B.Com) are not included in this.
Q3. How is the application process?
You can apply by visiting the website of Kendriya Sainik Board (www.ksb.gov.in). After registration, you have to fill the application form, upload documents and submit them.
Q4. Can two children from the same household apply for scholarship?
No, only one child from a family can get scholarship under PMSS scholarship.
Q5. How much financial help does the scholarship provide?
The amount of scholarship is given on an annual basis according to the professional courses. Its purpose is to reduce the financial burden of tuition fees and education expenses.