Kerala Snehapoorvam Scholarship for Orphans — Eligibility, Amount & How to Apply

What is Snehapoorvam Scholarship?

Snehapoorvam is a scholarship scheme by the Social Justice Department, Government of Kerala that provides monthly financial assistance to orphan children (who have lost one or both parents) to support their education and living expenses. The scheme ensures that children who have lost parental support are not forced to drop out of school due to financial difficulties.

The name "Snehapoorvam" means "with love" — reflecting the state's commitment to nurturing vulnerable children. The scheme covers students from Class 1 to postgraduate level, with financial assistance varying by education level.

Who is Eligible?

Student Eligibility

• Children who have lost both parents (full orphans)
• Children who have lost one parent (half orphans / single-parent children)
• Must be a resident of Kerala
• Must be enrolled in a recognized educational institution (government, aided, or recognized private school/college)
• Age limit: Up to 25 years (for continuing education)

Guardian/Family Criteria

• The surviving parent or guardian's annual income must be below ₹1,00,000
• Child must be living with a guardian, relative, or in a government/NGO-run home
• Not receiving similar financial assistance from any other government scheme

Priority Given To

• Full orphans (both parents deceased)
• Children of single mothers
• Children under care of aged grandparents
• Children in government children's homes (Balmandir, etc.)

Benefits Provided

Note: The amounts are credited directly to the student's or guardian's bank account. The scholarship is provided for 12 months per year (including vacations).

Documents Required

Identity & Residence

• Aadhaar card of the student — see our Aadhaar guide
• Ration card of the family/guardian — refer to our ration card guide
• Residence certificate from the Village Officer

Orphan Status Proof

• Death certificate of deceased parent(s)
• Legal guardianship certificate (if applicable)
• Certificate from children's home (if residing in an institution)

Educational Documents

• School/college bonafide certificate (current academic year)
• Previous year's mark sheet
• TC/Admission receipt (for new admissions)

Income Proof

• Income certificate of surviving parent/guardian from Village Officer
• Must show annual income below ₹1,00,000

Bank Details

• Bank account passbook of student (or guardian for minor children)
• Aadhaar-linked bank account preferred

Photographs

• Passport-size photographs (2 copies)

Step-by-Step Application Process

Online Application

1. Visit the Social Justice Department portal at sjd.kerala.gov.in
2. Navigate to "Snehapoorvam Scheme" under scholarships section
3. Register using mobile number and create a login
4. Fill the application form with student and guardian details
5. Upload scanned documents (PDF/JPEG, max 200KB each)
6. Submit and note the application reference number
7. Track status online using the reference number

Offline Application

1. Visit the nearest District Social Justice Office or ICDS (Integrated Child Development Services) office
2. Collect the Snehapoorvam application form (available free)
3. Fill the form with complete details in Malayalam or English
4. Attach self-attested copies of all required documents
5. Submit to the District Social Justice Officer (DSJO)
6. Collect acknowledgement receipt
7. Verification will be conducted by the ICDS Supervisor or Social Justice Department officer

Tip: Applications are typically accepted at the beginning of each academic year (June-July). Check with your district office for exact dates.

Fees

Processing Time

• Application review: 30-45 days
• Verification: 15-20 days after submission
• Approval and first disbursement: 2-3 months from application
• Subsequent payments: Monthly via bank transfer

Important Tips

1. Apply at the start of academic year — Applications submitted early get processed faster
2. Renew every year — The scholarship needs annual renewal with updated school certificates and income proof
3. Update bank details promptly if you change banks — missed payments due to wrong account details are common
4. Contact ICDS if delayed — The local ICDS Supervisor can follow up on pending applications
5. Keep death certificates safe — These are critical documents; get multiple certified copies from the municipality

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can a child who has lost only one parent apply?

A: Yes. Half orphans (children who have lost one parent) are eligible. The surviving parent/guardian's income must be below ₹1,00,000 per year.

Q2: Is the scholarship available for private school students?

A: Yes, if the school is government-recognized. Students in unrecognized institutions are not eligible.

Q3: Can siblings from the same family all apply?

A: Yes. Each eligible child in the family can individually apply and receive the scholarship. There is no limit on the number of children per family.

Q4: Does the scholarship continue during summer vacation?

A: Yes. The assistance is provided for 12 months per year, including vacation periods.

Q5: What if my guardian's income exceeds ₹1,00,000?

A: The application will be rejected. The income ceiling is strictly ₹1,00,000 per annum for the surviving parent or guardian.

Q6: Up to what age can I receive the Snehapoorvam scholarship?

A: Up to 25 years of age, provided you are continuing your education in a recognized institution (up to postgraduate level).

Q7: Can children living in orphanages apply?

A: Yes. Children in government or NGO-run children's homes are eligible. The home superintendent can apply on behalf of the child.

Disclaimer: CitizenNest is an independent platform and is not affiliated with the Government of Kerala. Information is compiled from official sources and may change. Always verify current details on sjd.kerala.gov.in.

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