Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme (PMSS) for RPF/RPSF 2024-25, Check Criteria & Application Process

The Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme (PMSS) for Railway Protection Force (RPF) and Railway Protection Special Force (RPSF) is a prestigious initiative launched by the Government of India to support higher technical and professional education for the dependent wards and widows of ex-RPF/RPSF personnel. Administered by the Ministry of Railways and funded through the National Defense Fund, this scheme aims to provide financial assistance to eligible students pursuing various professional courses.

PMSS RPF Scholarship Scheme 2024

Nodal Agency	National Defense Fund, Ministry of Railways
Scheme Name	Prime Minister Scholarship Scheme for RPF/RPSF
Total Seats	150 per year
Monthly Remuneration	Rs 2,500 for males, Rs 3,000 for females
Scheme Open Until	November 30, 2024
Official Website	scholarships.gov.in

Eligibility Criteria for PMSS RPF Scholarship

1. Beneficiary Status: Applicants must be dependent wards or widows of ex-serving RPF/RPSF personnel below the rank of Gazetted Officer.
2. Academic Performance: Students should have secured 60% or above in their Minimum Entry Qualification (MEQ), which includes 12th Standard, Diploma, or Graduation, depending on the course applied for.
3. Admission Status: Only students who have taken regular admission in the academic year 2024-25 are eligible to apply.
4. Family Limit: The scholarship is limited to two wards per family.
5. Institution Recognition: Only institutes, universities, or colleges with AISHE (All India Survey on Higher Education) recognition are eligible.
6. Course Restrictions:

• Students studying abroad are not eligible.
• Distance learning courses are not permitted under this scheme.
• PMSS can be availed for only one course.

Scholarship Benefits

Student Category	Scholarship Amount
Male Students	₹2,500 per month
Female Students	₹3,000 per month

Selection Criteria and Preferences

1. Category I: Wards/widows of ex-RPF/RPSF personnel who died in harness due to causes attributed to encounters with terrorists or criminals while protecting railway property, passengers, and passenger areas, or those who died during election work.
2. Category II: Wards/Widows of ex-RPF/RPSF personnel who died while in service.
3. Category III: Wards of ex-RPF/RPSF (retired) personnel.
4. Category IV: Wards of serving RPF/RPSF personnel.

PMSS RPF Scholarship Application Process

1. Visit the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) at scholarships.gov.in.
2. Register on the portal using a valid mobile number. (Note: A maximum of two registrations can be made with one mobile number.)
3. Complete the registration process with the required details.
4. Log in to your account using the credentials received after registration.
5. Click on the “Apply” button to access the application form.
6. Fill in all required details accurately.
7. Upload the necessary documents as specified in the application requirements.
8. Review all information before submission.
9. Click on the “Submit” button to complete your application.
10. Note down the system-generated registration number for future reference.

PMSS RPF Scholarship Required Documents

For Fresh Applicants:

• Service Certificate issued by respective offices of the serving personnel (for Category IV)
• Copy of PPO/Discharge certificate/book (for Categories I, II, and III)
• Scanned copy of mark sheet/Grade card of MEQ (12th Std., Diploma, or Graduation)

For Renewal Applicants:

• Latest service certificate issued by respective offices of the serving personnel (for Category IV)
• Scanned copy of the previous class mark sheet/grade card/proof of upgrade to the next class

Post-Application Process

1. Zonal Railways verify the applications on the scholarship portal.
2. Only verified and eligible applications are considered for the grant of scholarship.
3. The Security Directorate, Railway Board prepares the final compiled list of eligible candidates for submission to the Prime Minister’s Office.
4. Selected applicants receive the scholarship amount directly into their bank accounts through the Public Finance Management System (PFMS) under the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) Mission.

Renewal Process

1. Submit an online Renewal Application upon completing each academic year.
2. Maintain a minimum of 50% marks in each semester/academic year.
3. Pass all subjects in each semester/year in the FIRST ATTEMPT.
4. Apply for renewal within ONE YEAR from the declaration of results.

Important Guidelines

1. Course Eligibility: Only professional degree courses recognized by government regulatory bodies such as AICTE, MCI, UGC, and NCTE are eligible.
2. Master’s Degree Limitation: Most Master’s degree courses are not eligible, except for MBA and MCA.
3. Academic Performance: Passing all subjects in each semester/year on the first attempt is mandatory for the continuation of the scholarship.
4. Renewal Deadline: Students must apply for renewal within one year from the declaration of results.
5. Course Change: PMSS can be availed for only one course. Changing courses after receiving the scholarship is not permitted.
6. Institution Recognition: Only AISHE-recognized institutions are eligible under this scheme.

Distribution of Scholarships

The 150 annual scholarships are distributed among various Zonal Railways and RPSF to ensure equitable opportunities across regions. The specific allocation may vary based on the number of eligible applicants from each zone.

Challenges and Considerations

1. Competitive Selection: With limited scholarships available, the selection process can be highly competitive.
2. Strict Eligibility Criteria: The 60% marks requirement in MEQ may be challenging for some students.
3. Regular Performance Monitoring: Scholars must consistently maintain good academic performance to continue receiving the scholarship.
4. Limited Course Options: The scheme’s focus on specific professional courses may limit options for students interested in other fields.

Conclusion

The Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme for RPF/RPSF stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to supporting the education of those who serve in the protection of our railways. By offering substantial financial assistance and recognizing academic excellence, the scheme not only honors the sacrifices of RPF/RPSF personnel but also invests in the future of their families.

For eligible candidates, this scholarship presents a valuable opportunity to pursue higher education in prestigious institutions across India. The scheme’s structured approach, from application to renewal, ensures that deserving students receive continuous support throughout their academic journey.