The central government has mandated accreditation for universities and colleges as part of its post-matric scholarship scheme for students from Scheduled Tribes (ST). However, the Gujarat government has decided to provide scholarships this academic year to students from non-accredited institutions as well as those enrolled in non-FRC courses.

Gujarat governments’ Tribal Development Department announced some relaxations in the post-matric scholarship scheme for ST students. This scheme is funded by the central government, which contributes 75% of the grant, while the state government covers the remaining 25%. Initially, only students from private universities with NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council) grades of A, A+, or A++ and those with NBA (National Board of Accreditation) accreditation were eligible for scholarships.

However, this year, the Gujarat government has made an exception and will provide scholarships to students from private universities that lack accreditation. Furthermore, students enrolled in courses that have not been determined by the FRC (Fee Regulatory Committee) will also receive scholarships, just like in previous years.

Although the central government issued new guidelines this year requiring private universities to be enrolled for scholarships, the state government has exempted all institutions from this requirement, allowing students to receive scholarships regardless of enrolment status. 

Additionally, students in medical courses (MBBS, MD, and MS) will continue to receive a financial aid of ₹6 lakh from the central government, while the Gujarat government will provide additional top-up amounts: ₹2.5 lakh for technical courses, including engineering, and ₹1 lakh for other courses.

Overall, the Gujarat government has relaxed scholarship rules for ST students for the 2024-25 academic year, with plans to announce new guidelines for the 2025-26 academic year later.

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