Why in news?
State Councils of Educational Research and Training released application forms in October 2025 for the National Means‑cum‑Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) examination for the 2025–26 academic year. This centrally sponsored scheme provides financial support to students from economically weaker families to discourage them from leaving school after class VIII.
Background
NMMSS was launched in May 2008 by the Ministry of Education. Its objective is to arrest drop‑outs at the end of middle school and encourage continuation to secondary and senior secondary education. Under the scheme, about one lakh new scholarships are awarded each year. Each selected student currently receives ₹12,000 per annum (transferred quarterly via Direct Benefit Transfer) from class IX until class XII, provided they maintain the required academic performance.
Key points
- Eligibility: Students studying in government, local‑body or government‑aided schools who have scored at least 55 % marks in class VII (50 % for SC/ST) and whose parental income does not exceed ₹3.5 lakh per year are eligible. Children in residential schools such as Kendriya Vidyalayas and Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas are not eligible.
- Selection process: Each state conducts a two‑paper National Means‑cum‑Merit Scholarship Examination comprising a Mental Ability Test and a Scholastic Aptitude Test. Students who qualify the exam and meet income criteria are selected against state‑wise quotas.
- Benefits and renewal: Selected students must maintain a minimum of 55 % marks in class IX and class XI (50 % for SC/ST) to renew the scholarship in subsequent years. Funds are credited directly to their bank accounts through the Public Financial Management System.
- Digital applications: From 2023 onward, all applications and verification processes occur through the National Scholarship Portal, reducing paperwork and ensuring transparency.
Significance
- NMMSS addresses economic barriers that force children – especially girls – to leave school after class VIII. By easing financial pressure, it allows families to keep their children in school longer.
- The scheme improves equity in education by recognising merit among students from low‑income households and nurturing their talent through secondary school.
- Regular attendance required to retain the scholarship discourages child labour and early marriage, contributing to better social outcomes.
- Digital disbursal and monitoring increase transparency and ensure that scholarships reach the intended beneficiaries without middlemen.
Conclusion
NMMSS is a vital tool for reducing drop‑out rates and promoting inclusive education in India. Continued awareness campaigns and timely release of scholarships will ensure that bright students from disadvantaged backgrounds can complete their schooling and realise their potential.
Sources: NDTV; Ministry of Education