The Green Passage Scheme in Odisha aims to provide free higher education to students who have lost Read More... one or both parents, including those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. It also covers essential living expenses. Read less
Details
Losing a parent is tough, but imagine the struggle of continuing your education without that support. The Odisha government understands this and has brought in the "Green Passage Scheme" to ensure that no student's dreams are cut short due to such circumstances.
Launched in 2016-17, the Green Passage Scheme is a thoughtful initiative by the Higher Education Department of the Odisha Government. Its main goal is to make higher education accessible and affordable for students who are orphaned or have lost a parent. Recognizing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the scheme was updated to include children who lost both parents or their sole earning parent during that difficult period.
This scheme is designed for students pursuing higher education who meet specific criteria related to the loss of their parents. It extends a helping hand to those who need it the most, ensuring they don't face financial barriers to their academic journey.
Education is a powerful tool for a better future. By removing the financial burden of fees, accommodation, and food, the Green Passage Scheme empowers students to focus on their studies and build a secure future for themselves and their families. It's a commitment to ensuring that every deserving student gets a chance to learn and grow, regardless of their personal challenges.
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Benefits
Sources and references
To be eligible for the Green Passage Scheme, a student must meet the following conditions:
Students interested in the Green Passage Scheme need to follow these steps:
For the latest updates and detailed guidelines, please visit the official website of the Higher Education Department, Government of Odisha.
What types of fees are covered under the Green Passage Scheme?
The scheme covers a wide range of fees, including application fees, admission/readmission fees, tuition fees, examination fees, hostel admission fees, laboratory fees, library fees, and college development fees.
Is there a specific income limit for a guardian or surviving parent to apply for this scheme?
Yes, the annual income of the guardian, fit person, or surviving parent from all sources should not exceed ₹8,00,000 to be eligible for the scheme.
What are the eligibility criteria regarding the loss of parents?
Students are eligible if they are without biological or adoptive parents, have lost both parents, or have lost their single earning parent. This also extends to children in foster care or under a guardian's care.
Besides fee waivers, what other benefits does the Green Passage Scheme offer?
Yes, in addition to fee exemptions, the scheme also provides free accommodation and food for eligible students at their institutions.
If a student was residing in a Child Care Institution, what is the process to get the scheme's benefits?
If a student was or is an inmate of a Child Care Institution, the District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) will issue a certificate necessary to avail the benefits of the Green Passage Scheme.
When did the Green Passage Scheme begin?
The Green Passage Scheme was introduced in the academic year 2016-17.
What is the maximum reimbursement amount for students in non-government unaided institutions?
For students in non-government unaided institutions who arrange funds for admission themselves, the government reimbursement is limited to a maximum of ₹5,00,000 for their entire course duration.
Does the scheme cover all types of higher education courses?
Yes, the scheme covers general, professional, or technical education that lasts at least one year after Class-12, provided it's pursued in a Government or Non-Government Higher Education Institution.
Who is responsible for managing the Green Passage Scheme?
The Green Passage Scheme is managed by the Higher Education Department of the Government of Odisha.
What specific documents are needed for COVID-19 victim's children to apply?
Children of COVID-19 victims need to submit a Specially Cared Child Certificate/I-Card for identification and an income certificate from the concerned Tahasildar for consideration under the scheme.
Are death certificates of parents mandatory for the application?
Yes, the Death Certificate of the Parent/Parents is a mandatory document that must be submitted with the application.
How are fees reimbursed for students in Non-Government Aided Colleges?
In Non-Government Aided Colleges, fees are waived at admission. The government then reimburses these costs to the institution after the institution submits the required documents and vouchers to the Higher Education Department.