Introduction
The Reliance Foundation has unveiled the results of its Undergraduate Scholarships for the academic year 2024-25, selecting 5,000 deserving students across India. This initiative, launched on the 92nd birthday of Founder-Chairman Dhirubhai Ambani, aligns with the Foundation’s commitment to empowering young talent and supporting the nation’s growth.
Scholarship Overview
The Reliance Foundation’s scholarship program aims to nurture brilliance and future leaders by offering financial aid, mentorship, and holistic development opportunities to talented undergraduate students. Over 100,000 students from various backgrounds applied for this prestigious scholarship, which evaluates candidates based on Class XII marks, aptitude tests, and financial need.
Selection Criteria and Demographics
This year’s selection process highlighted the Foundation’s commitment to inclusiveness:
- Financial Background: Approximately 70% of the chosen scholars come from families earning less than ₹2.5 lakh annually.
- Academic Excellence: About 83% of the students scored over 90% in their Class XII examinations.
- Diversity and Representation: The successful candidates represent 540 districts and are enrolled in 1,300 institutions nationwide. Notably, 147 students are individuals with disabilities.
Scholarship Benefits
Each selected scholar will receive a comprehensive package, including:
- A financial grant of ₹2 lakh covering tuition fees, hostel charges, and other educational expenses.
- Access to extensive mentoring programs and professional development opportunities.
- Participation in workshops, seminars, and training sessions aimed at enhancing both technical and soft skills.
Commitment to Education and Future Scholarship Plans
In December 2022, the Reliance Foundation announced a commitment to providing a total of 50,000 scholarships over a decade. Since then, the initiative has proudly awarded scholarships to 5,100 students annually, split between 5,000 undergraduate and 100 postgraduate awards.
Voices from the Reliance Foundation
A spokesperson for the Reliance Foundation expressed their pride in recognizing and supporting the exceptional talents of young individuals. “Education is the key to unlocking opportunities, and we are dedicated to being part of these transformational journeys,” they stated. The Foundation emphasizes not only academic success but also community engagement, encouraging scholars to participate in social projects and volunteerism.
Regional Highlights
Uttar Pradesh stands out as the second-highest recipient of Reliance Foundation scholarships, with 628 scholars selected for the 2024-25 cohort.
Conclusion
The Reliance Foundation’s Undergraduate Scholarship program is a significant step towards fostering young talent and contributing to the nation’s future. By addressing educational needs and providing crucial support, the Foundation aims to unlock opportunities for these scholars, enabling them to thrive personally and professionally.