580 overseas scholarship beneficiaries in seven years; Maharashtra tops list
In seven years, the National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) Scheme has awarded scholarships to 580 students overseas, according to data presented in Parliament by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. The peak number of beneficiaries was 114 in 2023-24, but the count has since declined. As of August 6, 2026, only 78 students had benefited from the scheme this financial year.
The data reveals uneven distribution across years, with 41 beneficiaries in 2019-20 increasing to 78 in 2025-26. Maharashtra led the way, providing scholarships to 234 students over the period, comprising more than two-fifths of total beneficiaries. Delhi and Uttar Pradesh followed with 40 beneficiaries each. The scheme's reach is concentrated in a few states, with Maharashtra, Delhi, and Uttar Pradesh accounting for the majority.
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment is increasing awareness by publishing guidelines, advertisements, and letters to Social Welfare Departments to promote the scheme. Applications are submitted through an online portal, and funds are released via Indian Missions and Embassies abroad.
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