Government Strengthens Scholarship Delivery for Agriculture Students through NSP-DBT
Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare and Rural Development, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, today released scholarship and fellowship funds for agriculture students across the country through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) at ICAR-IARI, Pusa. Under the initiative more than 6,000 students received a total of ₹21.35 crore directly into their bank accounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism.
The initiative marks a significant step towards strengthening transparent, timely and hassle-free delivery of financial assistance to students pursuing agricultural education. With the integration of the NSP-DBT system, eligible agriculture students will receive scholarship support on a regular monthly basis, reducing delays and ensuring greater efficiency in fund disbursement.
Addressing the students, Shri Chouhan highlighted that scholarships are not merely financial assistance but an important instrument for strengthening agricultural education and expanding opportunities for students. He emphasised the need to integrate classroom learning with practical training so that students can contribute effectively as farmers, scientists, entrepreneurs and professionals.
The Minister encouraged students to actively participate in innovation, research and agri-startups and contribute towards addressing emerging challenges in the agriculture sector. He stated that under the leadership and guidance of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Government is focusing on food security, nutrition security and income security of farmers.
The Minister also appreciated the contribution of ICAR scientists and researchers in strengthening agricultural productivity and the country’s food security. He urged students to set larger goals and contribute meaningfully to national development.
The NSP-DBT mechanism is expected to enhance transparency, efficiency and accountability in scholarship distribution while enabling students to focus more effectively on their education and professional development.
On the occasion of Hariyali Amavasya, Shri Chouhan also appealed to agriculture students across ICAR institutions to undertake plantation activities and contribute towards environmental sustainability.
Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shri Bhagirath Choudhary, ICAR Director General Dr. M.L. Jat, ICAR Secretary Shri Gyanendra Tripathi, DDG Dr. Yashpal Singh Malik and IARI Director Dr. C. Srinivasa Rao, along with senior officials, scientists and students, were present at the programme. Thousands of students also participated virtually.
