Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme

Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme is a flagship scholarship initiative of the Government of Goa implemented by the Directorate of Higher Education to provide financial awards of Rs. 6 lakh for studies in India and Rs. 15 lakh for studies abroad to meritorious Goan students pursuing Post Graduate and Doctoral programmes at reputed institutions anywhere in the world. Every year, 40 scholars are selected through a rigorous merit-based process. Applications are submitted online through the official SUGAM Portal.

Introduction of Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme: A Brief Insight

Every year, many talented students from Goa secure admission to prestigious universities and research institutions across India and abroad, but face a significant financial barrier that prevents them from accepting those opportunities. The cost of postgraduate and doctoral education, especially abroad, runs into lakhs of rupees. The Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme was created specifically to remove this financial barrier for the brightest students from Goa.

The Directorate of Higher Education, Goa, implements this flagship scholarship scheme named after Late Manohar G. Parrikar, the former Chief Minister of Goa, who originally conceptualised this initiative. The scheme provides a financial award of Rs. 6 lakh for studies in India and Rs. 15 lakh for studies abroad to selected meritorious students pursuing Postgraduate or Doctoral programmes in any discipline at any reputable institution worldwide. Every year, 40 scholars are selected with a maximum cap of 50 in exceptional circumstances.

The selection process is rigorous and merit-based. A Screening Committee first shortlists the top 100 candidates based on academic performance, where SSC carries 50% weightage, HSSC carries 30%, and Graduation carries 20%. From these 100, a Selection Committee conducts final selection based on academic achievement at 45%, extra-curricular achievements at State, National, or International level at 10%, institution reputation at 15%, and an interview at 30%. Canvassing in any form leads to instant disqualification.

To be eligible, students must be residents of Goa for a minimum of 15 years or of Goan origin with a minimum of 7 years of Goa residence, must be below 35 years of age, must have scored a minimum 60% in the qualifying degree, and must be currently pursuing a PG or PhD programme at a bona fide institution. Candidates who passed any examination with grace marks are not eligible.

Students who want to explore other Goa Government scholarship and education support schemes can also check the Goa Divyang Kaushal Yojana, which supports skill training for Persons with Disabilities through sheltered workshops. Students who require additional financial support for tuition fees, hostel expenses, or other educational costs can also explore the PM Vidyalaxmi Scheme, which facilitates collateral-free and guarantor-free education loans for eligible students pursuing higher education in recognised institutions across India.

Students, parents, and educational institutions in Goa looking for more scholarship schemes, financial assistance programmes, skill development initiatives, and education welfare programmes can also explore other available opportunities under our Goa Government Schemes List section, according to their eligibility and requirements.

Benefits Provided to Selected Scholars

Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme provides one-time financial assistance to selected meritorious students from Goa for pursuing Post Graduate and Doctoral programmes. The award amount varies based on whether the student is studying in India or abroad.

Financial Award

• Students pursuing PG or PhD programmes in India receive a financial award of Rs. 6,00,000 (Rs. 6 lakh)
• Students pursuing PG or PhD programmes abroad receive a financial award of Rs. 15,00,000 (Rs. 15 lakh)
• Award amount is transferred directly into the Aadhaar-seeded bank account of the selected scholar through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
• Amount is paid from the Higher Education Promotion Fund (HEPF) managed by the Directorate of Higher Education, Goa

Number of Awards

• Every year, 40 outstanding scholars are selected and awarded under the scheme
• In certain circumstances, the Selection Committee can recommend more awards with Government approval, but the total number of awards shall not exceed 50 in any year
• There are no separate seats earmarked for PG and Doctoral programme students
• A candidate selected as a Goa Scholar for one year cannot receive the award again in subsequent years

Additional Benefits

• Selected scholars receive official recognition as a Goa Scholar by the Government of Goa
• Being named a Goa Scholar adds significant credibility to the academic and professional profile of the selected student
• The scheme supports studies at any reputed institution in India or abroad, with no restriction on institution location or discipline
• Scholars studying at QS, THE, NIRF-ranked or NAAC-accredited institutions receive additional weightage during final selection

Eligibility Conditions Required to be Fulfilled

The following eligibility conditions apply to students seeking financial assistance under the Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme as per the official scheme notification issued by the Directorate of Higher Education, Goa.

Residency Conditions

• Applicant must be a resident of Goa for a minimum period of 15 years
• Applicants of Goan origin who have a minimum period of 7 years of residence in Goa are also eligible; they must submit a birth certificate of either parent or grandparent born in Goa, along with a residence certificate confirming a minimum of 7 years in Goa

Age Condition

• The age of the applicant must not exceed 35 years as on 1st January of the year for which the Scheme is disbursed

Academic Conditions

• Applicant must have scored a minimum of 60% marks or equivalent grade in the qualifying degree examination
• Applicant must have a minimum 70% aggregate score as per the screening criteria, combining SSC, HSSC, and Graduation marks
• Applicant must have passed the qualifying degree examination from an institution preferably located in Goa, those who passed from reputed institutions in other parts of India can also apply if they fulfil all other conditions
• Candidates who passed SSC, HSSC, or Graduation with grace marks are not eligible to apply

Course and Admission Conditions

• Applicant must be pursuing a Post Graduate (PG) programme or a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in any discipline
• The institution or university can be located anywhere in India or abroad; there is no restriction on location
• Applicant must be a bona fide student of the institution for the academic year for which the Scheme is announced
• A bona fide certificate from the institution must mention the name of the programme and the start and end dates

Other Important Conditions

• A candidate selected as a Goa Scholar for one year cannot apply again in subsequent years
• Any form of canvassing or bringing external pressure will instantly disqualify the candidate
• Grace marks for NCC, NSS, Sports, and Cultural activities are not considered for shortlisting

Study in India vs Study Abroad Under This Scheme

Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme provides different award amounts based on whether the selected scholar is pursuing studies in India or abroad. Understanding this difference helps students make an informed decision about their higher education plans.

Important: There are no separate seats earmarked for students studying in India and students studying abroad. All 40 annual awards are given to the most meritorious candidates regardless of whether they are studying in India or abroad. Students are advised to secure admission in a reputed institution before applying, as the institution’s reputation carries 15% weightage in the final selection.

Documents Required to be Attached

Applicants must keep the following documents ready in the prescribed format before starting the online application on the official Goa Scholar Portal. No edits are allowed after final submission, so all documents must be prepared carefully before applying.

Documents to be Uploaded Online

• Passport-size photograph in JPEG, JPG, or PNG format, maximum file size 2 MB, must be recent and coloured, not black and white
• Birth Certificate in JPEG, JPG, PNG, or PDF format up to 2 MB
• Valid Residence Certificate confirming minimum 15 years of Goa residency in JPEG, JPG, PNG, or PDF format up to 2 MB
• For Goan origin candidates with 7 years residence: Residence Certificate of minimum 7 years in Goa in JPEG, JPG, PNG, or PDF format up to 2 MB
• Birth Certificate of the parent or grandparent born in Goa for Goan origin candidates
• SSC (Standard X) marksheet, both sides, in JPEG, JPG, PNG, or PDF format up to 2 MB
• HSSC (Standard XII) marksheet, both sides, in JPEG, JPG, PNG, or PDF format up to 2 MB
• Graduation marksheet for all semesters in JPEG, JPG, PNG, or PDF format up to 5 MB
• If graduation marks are in CGPA or FGPA: document issued by institution or university clearly outlining how to convert CGPA or FGPA to percentage in JPEG, JPG, PNG, or PDF format up to 2 MB
• A bona fide certificate issued by the institution where the applicant is currently pursuing a PG or PhD programme must mention the programme name, start date, and end date, in JPEG, JPG, PNG, or PDF format up to 2 MB
• Institution ranking or accreditation certificate (QS, THE, NIRF ranking or NAAC grade) issued by the institution, wherever applicable

Documents to be Submitted with Hard Copy

• Printout of the downloaded application from the Goa Scholar Portal Dashboard must be printed as-is without any changes
• Covering letter as per the template available on the DHE website
• Self-attested copies of all academic documents uploaded online

For Shortlisted Candidates Only

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• 500-word write-up explaining why the candidate should be considered for the Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme, including academic achievements, contributions to the institution and community, and plans to contribute to Goa’s development

Important: Aadhaar Card number is required for e-signing the application using OTP; no copy needs to be uploaded. Only one application can be submitted per Aadhaar number, Email ID, and Mobile number combination. Use Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge for the best results on the portal.

How Scholars Can Apply to Avail the Benefit of this Scheme

Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme accepts applications through a two-stage process involving online submission on the official SUGAM Portal, followed by hard copy submission to the Directorate of Higher Education, Goa. The selection process then happens in two phases, where shortlisting details are collected first, and additional details are collected only from shortlisted candidates in the second phase.

Step 1: Visit the official DHE Goa website at www.https://dhe.goa.gov.in and go to Schemes. Click on Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme and click on the link to the SUGAM Portal.

Step 2: Visit the official SUGAM Portal and register using your Aadhaar number, Email ID, and Mobile number. Note that only one application can be submitted per Aadhaar number, Email ID, and Mobile number combination, so ensure all details are correct before proceeding.

Step 3: After successful registration, log in to the SUGAM Portal and select the Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme service on the dashboard.

Step 4: Fill in all required details in each section of the application form, including personal details, academic details, admission information, and institution details. Go through the form preview carefully before submitting.

Step 5: Upload all required documents in the prescribed file formats and size limits, including passport-size photograph, birth certificate, residence certificate, SSC and HSSC marksheets, graduation marksheets for all semesters, bonafide certificate, and institution ranking certificate wherever applicable.

Step 6: E-sign the application using your 12-digit Aadhaar number. Enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number and submit the application. No edits are allowed after final submission.

Step 7: After successful submission, a confirmation email is sent to your registered email address. Go to the Dashboard tab on the SUGAM Portal and download the submitted application.

Step 8: Print the downloaded application document as-is without any changes. Send the hard copy along with the covering letter and self-attested copies of all uploaded documents to the Directorate of Higher Education, Goa Education Complex, Alto-Porvorim, Goa 403521 by Speed Post or courier. Hard copy can also be hand-delivered to the office during office hours.

Step 9: The Screening Committee scrutinises all applications and shortlists the top 100 candidates with a minimum aggregate score of 70 based on academic performance. The list of shortlisted candidates is uploaded on the DHE website. Any discrepancies in the submission are communicated via email.

Step 10: Shortlisted candidates are informed of their interview date and time slot. They must submit an updated CV and a 500-word write-up explaining why they should be considered for the scheme, their achievements, contributions to the community, and plans to contribute to Goa’s development.

Step 11: The Selection Committee conducts the final interview either in person or through video conferencing. The committee evaluates academic performance, extra-curricular achievements, institution reputation, and personal qualities, including confidence, creativity, and promise of effective service.

Step 12: Selected scholars receive official communication from DHE Goa. They must furnish a pre-receipt for the sanctioned amount and submit a bank certificate confirming the account holder’s name, account number, bank name, branch address, IFSC code, and confirmation that the account is Aadhaar-seeded.

Step 13: Award amount is transferred directly to the selected scholar’s Aadhaar-seeded bank account through DBT from the Higher Education Promotion Fund.

Important: Applicants must regularly visit the DHE website and the SUGAM Portal and check their email for updates on application status, shortlisting, and interview schedules. Use Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge for the best results on the portal.

Selection Process Under Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme

The selection process under the Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme happens in two distinct phases. Understanding the complete process helps students prepare their application and supporting materials more effectively.

Phase 1: Screening by Screening Committee

In the first phase, only the details needed for shortlisting are collected from all applicants. The Screening Committee evaluates all eligible applications purely on academic merit.

• All eligible applications are evaluated on a 100-point scale based on academic performance only
• SSC (Standard X) marks carry 50% weightage
• HSSC (Standard XII) marks carry 30% weightage
• Graduation marks carry 20% weightage
• Grace marks for NCC, NSS, Sports, and Cultural activities are not considered at this stage
• The top 100 candidates with a minimum aggregate score of 70 are shortlisted for the final interview
• If multiple candidates tie at the 100th position, all candidates with the same score are called for the interview
• The list of shortlisted candidates is uploaded on the DHE website

Phase 2: Final Selection by Selection Committee

In the second phase, only shortlisted candidates are asked to submit additional details. The Selection Committee then conducts the final selection.

• Shortlisted candidates submit an updated CV and a 500-word write-up explaining why they should be considered for the scheme, their achievements, and their plans to contribute to Goa’s development
• Final selection is based on a 100-point scale with the following weightages:
  • Academic and curricular achievements: 45%
  • Extra-curricular achievements at State, National, or International level: 10%
  • Reputation of the institution where the applicant is studying: 15%
  • Interview conducted in person or through video conferencing: 30%
• The Selection Committee evaluates personal qualities, confidence, creativity, innovativeness, and the promise of effective service to the state and country during the interview
• The date and time of the interview are communicated only to shortlisted candidates
• All candidates appearing for the interview are ranked in order of merit
• The Selection Committee recommends the final list of selected Goa Scholars to the Government for approval

Important Links Available

• Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme Official Portal.
• Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme Official Application Portal, SUGAM.
• Official Scheme Notification PDF, Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme.
• List of Selected Candidates, Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme.
• Directorate of Higher Education, Goa Official Website.
• Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme Guidelines.
• Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme Instruction to Students.

Contact Details in Case of Help Needed

Students facing issues related to Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme application, eligibility, portal queries, or scheme-related clarifications can contact the following official channels.

• Helpline Numbers: 0832-2415585 / 0832-2410824 (Available during office hours)
• Email: dir-dhe.goa@nic.in
• Office Timings: 9:30 AM to 1:15 PM and 2:00 PM to 5:45 PM (Lunch Break 1:15 PM to 2:00 PM)
• Directorate of Higher Education, Goa
  Goa Education Complex,
  Alto-Porvorim, Bardez,
  Goa 403521

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What is the Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme?

Ans. Manohar Parrikar Goa Scholars Scheme is a flagship scholarship initiative of the Government of Goa implemented by the Directorate of Higher Education to provide financial assistance to meritorious Goan students for pursuing Post Graduate and Doctoral programmes at reputed institutions in India and abroad.

Q. Who was this scheme named after?

Ans. The scheme is named after Late Manohar G. Parrikar, former Chief Minister of Goa, who conceptualised this initiative to encourage talented Goan students to pursue advanced education and contribute to the state’s development.

Q. What is the financial award under this scheme?

Ans. Selected scholars pursuing studies in India receive Rs. 6,00,000 and those pursuing studies abroad receive Rs. 15,00,000. The amount is transferred directly to the scholar’s Aadhaar-seeded bank account through DBT.

Q. How many scholars are selected every year?

Ans. Every year, 40 outstanding scholars are selected under the scheme. In certain circumstances, the Selection Committee can recommend more awards with Government approval but the total number of awards shall not exceed 50 in any year.

Q. For which courses can I avail this scholarship?

Ans. The scholarship is available for Post Graduate (PG) programmes and Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) programmes in any discipline. There is no restriction on the subject or field of study.

Q. Should the university or institution be located in India?

Ans. No. Applicants can pursue their studies at any institution or university within India or abroad. There is no restriction on the location of the institution.

Q. What is the age limit for applying?

Ans. The age of the applicant must not exceed 35 years as on 1st January of the year for which the scheme is disbursed.

Q. What is the minimum residency requirement for applying?

Ans. Applicants must be residents of Goa for a minimum period of 15 years. Applicants of Goan origin with a minimum of 7 years of residence in Goa are also eligible, provided they submit the birth certificate of either parent or grandparent born in Goa.

Q. What is the minimum academic score required?

Ans. Applicants must have scored a minimum of 60% marks or equivalent grade in the qualifying degree examination, along with a minimum 70% aggregate score as per the screening criteria combining SSC, HSSC, and Graduation marks.

Q. Can I apply if I passed my exams with grace marks?

Ans. No. Candidates who passed SSC, HSSC, or Graduation with grace marks are not eligible to apply under the scheme.

Q. Can I be selected as a Goa Scholar for more than one year?

Ans. No. Once selected as a Goa Scholar for a particular year, the candidate cannot apply again in subsequent years.

Q. How are candidates shortlisted for the final interview?

Ans. The Screening Committee evaluates candidates on a 100-point scale based on academic performance. SSC marks carry 50% weightage, HSSC marks carry 30% weightage, and Graduation marks carry 20% weightage. The top 100 candidates with a minimum aggregate score of 70 are shortlisted for the final interview.

Q. What are the criteria for final selection?

Ans. The Selection Committee evaluates candidates on a 100-point scale. Academic achievements carry 45% weightage, extra-curricular achievements at the State, National, or International level carry 10% weightage, institution reputation carries 15% weightage, and the interview carries 30% weightage.

Q. Where should I apply for this scheme?

Ans. Eligible students can apply online through the official SUGAM Portal at sugam.gshec.edu.in. After online submission, a hard copy of the downloaded application must be submitted to the Directorate of Higher Education, Goa Education Complex, Alto-Porvorim, Goa 403521 by Speed Post, courier, or hand delivery.

Q. What happens if I canvass or bring external pressure for selection?

Ans. Any form of canvassing or bringing external pressure will instantly and permanently disqualify the candidate from the scheme for that year.

Q. Are NCC, NSS, or Sports achievements considered for shortlisting?

Ans. No. Grace marks or achievements in NCC, NSS, Sports, and Cultural activities are not considered during the shortlisting stage by the Screening Committee. However, extra-curricular achievements at the State, National, or International level are considered during the final selection stage with 10% weightage.

Tabassum

Tabassum is a government schemes researcher and writer with 5 years of experience tracking Central and State welfare programmes across India. She has covered 500+ schemes spanning agriculture, women welfare, education, and housing, helping lakhs of beneficiaries understand their entitlements in simple language.