Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Scheme in Odisha
Background & Historical Inspiration
State Government has launched a new scheme under ST & SC Development, Minorities & Backward classes welfare Department, Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Scheme with an aim to reduce dropout rate among ST students. Named in honor of Madho Singh Bariha, a courageous tribal leader from Ghess in Bargarh district who waged guerrilla warfare against British colonial forces during the 1857 uprising, this scheme commemorates his legacy of resilience and empowerment.
Purpose & Objectives
- Reduce dropout rates among Scheduled Tribe (ST) students during the critical transition from Class VIII to IX and Class X to XI attending Government or Government Aided High schools/Secondary schools.
Scheme Highlights
- Incentive: A one-time ₹5,000 direct-benefit transfer to ST students enrolling in Class IX or XI.
- Financial outlay: Budget of approximately ₹156 crore targeting about 200,000 tribal students.
Key Eligibility Criteria
| S. No. | Criteria | Details |
| 1 | Community | Must be a Scheduled Tribe (ST) student |
| 2 | Class Admission | Enrolled in Class IX or XI in the 2024–25 academic year |
| 3 | Income Ceiling | Annual family income ≤ ₹2.5 lakh |
| 4 | Institution Type | Attending Government and Government. Aided secondary /Higher Secondary school |
Disbursement & Administration
- Application: Initiated by school Principals/Headmasters via the Odisha State Scholarship Portal.
- Verification & Transfer: One-time incentive payments are credited directly to students’ bank accounts upon enrolment and verification.
Conclusion
The Shahid Madho Singh Haath Kharcha Scheme is a forward-thinking initiative that combines symbolic homage and practical upliftment. By offering direct financial assistance during critical educational milestones, it not only fosters increased school retention among tribal students but also reinforces pride in Odisha’s tribal heritage.
