The Deen Dayal SPARSH Yojana is an initiative by the Department of Posts, Ministry of Communications, Government of India, designed to encourage philately (stamp collection and study) among school students. This program, launched in 2017, provides financial assistance to students in classes 6 to 9 who display academic excellence and a strong interest in philately.
Under this scheme, selected students receive an annual scholarship of ₹6,000, allowing them to explore philately as an educational tool while gaining financial support. This article provides a detailed overview of the scholarship, including eligibility, selection process, application steps, and benefits.
Deen Dayal SPARSH Yojana 2024
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Amount | ₹6,000 per year (₹500 per month) |
| Eligible Students | Classes 6 to 9 with an interest in philately |
| Academic Requirement | Minimum 60% marks in the last exam (55% for SC/ST students) |
| Total Scholarships | 920 scholarships available across India |
| Selection Process | Philately quiz and project submission |
| Application Deadline | Varies by region; check with the local postal office |
| Official Website | India Post |
About the Deen Dayal SPARSH Yojana
The Deen Dayal SPARSH Yojana (Scholarship for Promotion of Aptitude & Research in Stamps as a Hobby) was launched to encourage students to take up philately as a learning-oriented activity.
Stamp collection is more than just a hobby—it serves as a window into history, culture, and global affairs. Through this program, the government aims to:
- Develop interest in postal history and stamp collection among students.
- Provide financial support to encourage participation in extracurricular learning.
- Help students build research and analytical skills through philatelic projects.
- Promote awareness of India’s rich cultural and historical heritage through stamps.
This initiative allows students to engage in philately in an academic setting, making learning interactive and enjoyable.
Eligibility Criteria for Deen Dayal SPARSH Yojana
To apply for the scholarship, students must fulfill the following requirements:
1. Academic Performance
- Candidates should have achieved at least 60% marks in their last annual examination (55% for SC/ST students).
2. Interest in Philately
- Applicants must either:
- Be a member of their school’s Philately Club, OR
- Hold a Philately Deposit Account at their local post office.
- If the school does not have a Philately Club, students can still apply by opening a Philately Deposit Account.
3. School Enrollment
- The program is open to students in classes 6, 7, 8, and 9 from recognized schools across India.
The eligibility requirements ensure that interested students, regardless of their background, have access to this opportunity.
Selection Process for Deen Dayal SPARSH Yojana
The selection process evaluates both academic merit and interest in philately through a quiz and a project submission.
Step 1: Philately Quiz
- Each Postal Circle organizes a philately-based quiz for applicants.
- The quiz tests knowledge of stamp history, postal services, and philatelic concepts.
- Questions may include:
- The role of stamps in history and communication.
- Famous Indian and international stamps.
- Postal services and their evolution over time.
Step 2: Philately Project Submission
- Shortlisted students must submit a research-based project on a philatelic theme.
- Possible topics include:
- The Role of Stamps in Documenting India’s Independence.
- Wildlife Conservation Through Postal Stamps.
- How Postal Systems Have Evolved Over the Years.
- A panel of postal officials and philatelists evaluates projects based on:
- Creativity and originality.
- Depth of research and understanding.
- Presentation and overall quality.
This selection method ensures that scholarship recipients are not only academically talented but also passionate about philately.
How to Apply for Deen Dayal SPARSH Yojana
The application process for this scholarship is straightforward and accessible to all eligible students.
Step 1: Obtain the Application Form
- Students can collect the form from their nearest post office or download it from the India Post website.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
- Applicants must provide personal details, academic information, and proof of philately involvement.
- All required supporting documents should be attached.
Step 3: Submit the Application
- Completed forms must be submitted to the Senior Superintendent of Post Offices or Superintendent of Post Offices in the student’s respective postal division.
- Application deadlines vary by region, so students should check with their local post office.
Step 4: Prepare for the Quiz and Project
- After applying, students should start preparing for the quiz and working on their philately project.
Why Students Should Apply for Deen Dayal SPARSH Yojana
1. Financial Support for Education
- The ₹6,000 annual scholarship helps students with educational expenses such as books, school supplies, and extracurricular activities.
2. Enhancing Knowledge and Awareness
- Philately encourages students to explore historical events, cultural heritage, and geography through stamps.
3. Developing Research and Analytical Skills
- Working on a philatelic project improves critical thinking, creativity, and organizational abilities.
4. Cultivating a Meaningful Hobby
- Stamp collection teaches patience, attention to detail, and a deeper appreciation for global history.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible to apply for this scholarship?
Students from classes 6 to 9 who meet the academic and philatelic interest criteria.
2. What is the scholarship amount?
Selected students receive ₹6,000 annually, distributed as ₹500 per month.
3. Is joining a Philately Club mandatory?
Yes, students must either be part of a school Philately Club or hold a Philately Deposit Account at a post office.
4. What topics are covered in the philately quiz?
The quiz includes:
- Historical events and famous stamps.
- Postal history and its significance.
- Basic philatelic concepts.
5. How are projects assessed?
Submissions are evaluated based on originality, research depth, and presentation quality.
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