{ "version": "https://jsonfeed.org/version/1.1", "title": "SEEDbridge Foundation: guides", "home_page_url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/guides/", "feed_url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/feeds/articles.json", "description": "All published SEEDbridge guides in English and Tamil, with audience, stage, sources and last-checked dates.", "language": "en-IN", "authors": [ { "name": "SEEDbridge Foundation", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org" } ], "items": [ { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/birth-certificate-tamil-nadu/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/birth-certificate-tamil-nadu/", "title": "Birth certificate in Tamil Nadu: register and download", "summary": "A birth must be registered where it happened, free within 21 days. In villages, the VAO registers it; in towns, the Sanitary Inspector or Executive Officer. For births registered from 2018, you can download the certificate free on crstn.org with the RCH ID, or the child's details and your mobile number. Add the child's name, free within one year of registration.", "content_text": "## Register a birth\n\nRegister the birth with the registrar for the place where it happened, within **21 days**, free:\n\n- **Village panchayat:** the VAO\n- **Primary Health Centre:** the Health Inspector\n- **Town panchayat:** the Executive Officer or Sanitary Inspector\n- **Municipality or corporation:** the Sanitary Inspector\n\nA late fee applies after 21 days.\n\n## Download the certificate (births registered from 2018)\n\n1. Go to **crstn.org** and choose **Certificate Download**, then **Birth**.\n2. Enter the RCH ID, or the child's gender, district, place and date of birth.\n3. Enter your mobile number and the OTP.\n4. Download the certificate. It is free.\n\n## Official link\n\n- Civil Registration System, Tamil Nadu: crstn.org (https://crstn.org/birth_death_tn/)", "date_published": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "ID Cards and Documents", "birth-certificate", "crs", "tamil-nadu", "documents" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "documents", "audience": [ "parent", "school-student" ], "stage": [ "class-6-8", "class-9-10" ], "type": "how-to", "last_verified": "2026-10-02", "sources": [ { "title": "Civil Registration System, Tamil Nadu: FAQ", "url": "https://www.crstn.org/birth_death_tn/AboutUs/FAQ.pdf" }, { "title": "Civil Registration System, Tamil Nadu: certificate download", "url": "https://crstn.org/birth_death_tn/" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/book-a-train-ticket/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/book-a-train-ticket/", "title": "How to book a train ticket online", "summary": "Create a free account on the IRCTC website or app and book reserved tickets online, or at a railway reservation counter. To book Tatkal tickets online, your IRCTC account must be Aadhaar-authenticated, and Tatkal bookings need an OTP on your mobile. For help during a journey, call Rail Madad on 139.", "content_text": "## Book online\n\n1. Download the **IRCTC Rail Connect** app or go to **irctc.co.in**, and create a free account with your mobile number and email.\n2. **Authenticate your Aadhaar** in your account profile. You need this for Tatkal bookings.\n3. Search for your train, choose the class and date, add passenger details and pay.\n4. Your e-ticket comes by SMS and email. Carry an ID card when you travel.\n\n## Unreserved tickets\n\nBuy them at the station counter, or on the **RailOne** app from Indian Railways.\n\n## Help on the train\n\nCall **Rail Madad 139** for complaints, safety or medical help during a journey.\n\n## Official links\n\n- IRCTC: irctc.co.in (https://www.irctc.co.in/)\n- Aadhaar authentication guide: IRCTC user guide (https://contents.irctc.co.in/en/MobileAppUserGuideAadhaarAuthenticationForTatkalBooking.pdf)\n\nBook only on the official IRCTC website or app. Fake ticket websites and agents are common.", "date_published": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "ID Cards and Documents", "train-ticket", "irctc", "tatkal", "railways", "travel" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "documents", "audience": [ "college-student", "job-seeker", "parent" ], "stage": [ "after-12th", "undergraduate", "postgraduate", "graduate-unemployed" ], "type": "how-to", "last_verified": "2026-10-02", "sources": [ { "title": "PIB, Ministry of Railways: Aadhaar authentication for Tatkal bookings (June 2025)", "url": "https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2135694" }, { "title": "IRCTC: user guide for Aadhaar authentication", "url": "https://contents.irctc.co.in/en/MobileAppUserGuideAadhaarAuthenticationForTatkalBooking.pdf" }, { "title": "IRCTC (official booking website)", "url": "https://www.irctc.co.in/" }, { "title": "Southern Railway: RailOne app", "url": "https://sr.indianrailways.gov.in/view_detail.jsp?lang=0&dcd=19160&id=0%2C4%2C268" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/community-income-nativity-certificates/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/community-income-nativity-certificates/", "title": "Community, income, nativity and first graduate certificates", "summary": "In Tamil Nadu, community, income, nativity and first graduate certificates are applied for through e-Sevai: online on the citizen portal, or at any e-Sevai centre. The revenue department checks your application and you download the certificate. These certificates are needed for scholarships, admissions, fee concessions and reserved seats, so apply early.", "content_text": "## Which certificate do you need?\n\n| Certificate | Used for |\n|---|---|\n| Community (caste) certificate | Reserved seats, scholarships, government jobs |\n| Income certificate | Scholarships, fee concessions, welfare schemes |\n| Nativity certificate | Proof that you are from Tamil Nadu, for admissions and jobs |\n| First graduate certificate | Admissions and concessions that ask whether you are the first in your family to study for a degree |\n\n## How to apply\n\n1. **Online:** sign up once on the **TN e-Sevai citizen portal**, log in and choose the certificate. Or go to any **e-Sevai centre**.\n2. Upload your photo, an address proof and a self-declaration. For a community certificate, a parent's or sibling's community certificate helps.\n3. Pay the small service charge and note your application number.\n4. Track the status online, and download your certificate when it is approved.\n\n## Official links\n\n- TN e-Sevai citizen portal: tnesevai.tn.gov.in (https://www.tnesevai.tn.gov.in/Citizen/)\n- Check status: edistricts.tn.gov.in (https://edistricts.tn.gov.in/revenue/status.html)\n- e-Sevai helpdesk: **1800 425 1333**", "date_published": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "ID Cards and Documents", "community-certificate", "income-certificate", "nativity-certificate", "first-graduate", "e-sevai", "tamil-nadu" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "documents", "audience": [ "school-student", "board-exam-student", "college-student", "parent" ], "stage": [ "class-9-10", "class-11-12", "after-12th", "undergraduate" ], "type": "how-to", "last_verified": "2026-10-02", "sources": [ { "title": "Salem District: e-Sevai services for citizens (revenue certificates)", "url": "https://salem.nic.in/service/e-sevai-services-for-citizens/" }, { "title": "Ariyalur District: TN e-Sevai portal (helpdesk 1800 425 1333)", "url": "https://ariyalur.nic.in/service/tn-e-sevai-portal/" }, { "title": "Tenkasi District: application status of revenue certificates", "url": "https://tenkasi.nic.in/service/application-status-of-revenue-certificates/" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/e-shram-card/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/e-shram-card/", "title": "e-Shram card for unorganised workers: how to register", "summary": "e-Shram is the national register of unorganised workers. If you are 16 to 59, work as a daily-wage, farm, home-based or self-employed worker, and are not a member of EPFO or ESIC, you can register free on eshram.gov.in or at a Common Service Centre. You need your Aadhaar and the mobile linked to it. You get a 12-digit UAN that never expires.", "content_text": "## Who can register?\n\n- Aged **16 to 59**\n- An unorganised worker: a wage worker such as a daily-wage labourer, an agricultural labourer, a home-based worker, or self-employed\n- Not a member of **EPFO** or **ESIC**\n\n## How to register\n\n1. Go to **eshram.gov.in** and choose **Register on e-Shram**.\n2. Enter your Aadhaar-linked mobile number and the OTP.\n3. Enter your Aadhaar and confirm your details.\n4. Add your address, education, work and bank details.\n5. Download your **e-Shram card** with your **UAN**.\n\nOr visit a **Common Service Centre** for free help to register.\n\n## Keep ready\n\nAadhaar, the mobile linked to it, and your bank passbook.\n\n## Official links\n\n- e-Shram: eshram.gov.in (https://eshram.gov.in/)\n- Find a CSC: findmycsc.nic.in (https://findmycsc.nic.in/csc)\n- Helpline: **14434**", "date_published": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "ID Cards and Documents", "e-shram", "unorganised-workers", "uan", "labour", "documents" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "documents", "audience": [ "parent", "job-seeker", "out-of-school-youth" ], "stage": [ "graduate-unemployed", "working-upskilling" ], "type": "how-to", "last_verified": "2026-10-02", "sources": [ { "title": "e-Shram: frequently asked questions", "url": "https://eshram.gov.in/faqs" }, { "title": "e-Shram portal", "url": "https://eshram.gov.in/" }, { "title": "Find a Common Service Centre", "url": "https://findmycsc.nic.in/csc" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/free-bus-travel-tamil-nadu/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/free-bus-travel-tamil-nadu/", "title": "Free bus travel in Tamil Nadu: students, women and disability", "summary": "Students in Classes 1 to 12 and in government colleges, polytechnics and ITIs get a free bus pass from home to school or college, given out through the school or college. Women and transgender persons travel free in ordinary town buses under the Vidiyal Payanam scheme. Persons with disabilities can get free or concession passes through the District Differently Abled Welfare Officer.", "content_text": "## Students\n\n- **Who:** students in Classes 1 to 12 in government-recognised schools, and students of government arts and science colleges, polytechnics and ITIs.\n- **Route:** from home to school or college and back.\n- **How:** apply through your school or college. Passes are usually given from June, for the school year.\n\n## Women\n\nUnder **Vidiyal Payanam**, women and transgender persons travel **free in ordinary town buses** run by the government transport corporations. No pass is needed.\n\n## Persons with disabilities\n\nFree or concession travel is available, for example for visually impaired persons up to 100 km, and with an escort for persons with intellectual disabilities. Apply with the form from the **District Differently Abled Welfare Officer**, with your UDID card.\n\n## Official links\n\n- Tamil Nadu transport (MTC): mtcbus.tn.gov.in (https://mtcbus.tn.gov.in/)\n- Welfare of Differently Abled Persons: scd.tn.gov.in (https://www.scd.tn.gov.in/)", "date_published": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "ID Cards and Documents", "bus-pass", "free-travel", "students", "women", "disability", "tamil-nadu" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "documents", "audience": [ "school-student", "college-student", "women", "persons-with-disabilities", "parent" ], "stage": [ "class-6-8", "class-9-10", "class-11-12", "undergraduate" ], "type": "how-to", "last_verified": "2026-10-02", "sources": [ { "title": "MTC Chennai: free bus pass for students", "url": "https://mtcbus.tn.gov.in/Home/students/14" }, { "title": "Tiruvarur District: TNSTC Kumbakonam (student passes and concessions)", "url": "https://tiruvarur.nic.in/departments/tnstc/" }, { "title": "MTC Chennai: facilities (Vidiyal Payanam free travel for women)", "url": "https://mtcbus.tn.gov.in/Home/facilities" }, { "title": "The Nilgiris District: transgender persons can use Vidiyal Payanam", "url": "https://nilgiris.nic.in/p-r-no196-district-collector-has-announced-that-transgender-individuals-can-utilize-the-vidiyal-payanam-scheme/" }, { "title": "Welfare of Differently Abled Persons: travel concession", "url": "https://www.scd.tn.gov.in/pdf/schemes/pdf/TRAVEL%20CONCESSION%20TO%20THE%20DIFFERENTLY%20%20ABLED%20%20PERSONS%20%20%20IN.pdf" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/free-health-insurance-tamil-nadu/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/free-health-insurance-tamil-nadu/", "title": "Free health insurance in Tamil Nadu: CMCHIS and Ayushman Bharat", "summary": "The Chief Minister's Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme (CMCHIS) covers eligible families for up to Rs 5 lakh a year in empanelled hospitals. Enrol at your district enrolment centre with your ration card, Aadhaar and an income certificate from the VAO. Everyone aged 70 or over can also get free cover under Ayushman Vay Vandana, whatever their income.", "content_text": "## CMCHIS: how to enrol\n\n1. Get an **income certificate** from the VAO or revenue office.\n2. Take your **ration card, Aadhaar and income certificate** to your **district enrolment centre**. To find it, call the helpline 1800 425 3993.\n3. The operator checks your documents and takes your fingerprints, photo and eye scan.\n4. You get your **health insurance e-card**.\n\nThe cover is up to **Rs 5 lakh per family per year**, for treatment in empanelled government and private hospitals.\n\n## For people aged 70 and over\n\n**Ayushman Vay Vandana** gives free treatment cover to everyone aged 70 or over. Register at an empanelled hospital, in the **Ayushman** app, or at **beneficiary.nha.gov.in**.\n\n## Official links\n\n- CMCHIS: cmchistn.com (https://www.cmchistn.com/)\n- Ayushman card: beneficiary.nha.gov.in (https://beneficiary.nha.gov.in/)\n- CMCHIS helpline (24 hours, Tamil): **1800 425 3993**\n- Ayushman helpline: **14555**", "date_published": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "ID Cards and Documents", "cmchis", "health-insurance", "ayushman-bharat", "pm-jay", "tamil-nadu" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "documents", "audience": [ "parent", "job-seeker" ], "stage": [ "working-upskilling", "graduate-unemployed" ], "type": "how-to", "last_verified": "2026-10-02", "sources": [ { "title": "myScheme: Chief Minister's Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme", "url": "https://www.myscheme.gov.in/schemes/cmchis" }, { "title": "Cuddalore District: CMCHIS (enrolment centre, helpline 1800 425 3993)", "url": "https://cuddalore.nic.in/scheme/chief-ministers-comprehensive-health-insurance-scheme/" }, { "title": "PIB: Ayushman Vay Vandana for people aged 70 and over (December 2024)", "url": "https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2082288" }, { "title": "PIB: Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY (February 2026)", "url": "https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2222493" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/get-a-driving-licence/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/get-a-driving-licence/", "title": "How to get a driving licence", "summary": "First get a learner's licence: apply on sarathi.parivahan.gov.in, pay the fee, and pass a short test on road rules. After one month, take the driving test at the RTO to get your driving licence. You can get a licence for a gearless two-wheeler at 16 with a parent's consent, and for a car or geared motorcycle at 18.", "content_text": "## Minimum age\n\n- **16:** motorcycle without gear, with a parent's or guardian's consent\n- **18:** car, and motorcycle with gear\n- **20:** transport (commercial) vehicles\n\n## How to get it\n\n1. Go to **sarathi.parivahan.gov.in**, choose **Tamil Nadu**, then **Learner Licence**.\n2. Fill the form, upload your documents and photo, pay the fee and book a slot.\n3. Pass the **learner's test** on road rules and signs.\n4. Practise for at least **one month**, then book and take the **driving test** at the RTO.\n5. Your driving licence is issued after you pass.\n\n## Documents\n\nProof of age and address (for example Aadhaar, school certificate or birth certificate), a photo, and a self-declaration of fitness. Under 18, a parent or guardian signs a consent declaration.\n\n## Fees (Government of India)\n\n| Item | Fee |\n|---|---|\n| Learner's licence, per vehicle type | Rs 150 |\n| Learner's test | Rs 50 |\n| Driving test, per vehicle type | Rs 300 |\n| Issue of driving licence | Rs 200 |\n\nThe state may add a small service charge.\n\n## Official link\n\n- Parivahan Sarathi: sarathi.parivahan.gov.in (https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/sarathiservice)", "date_published": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "ID Cards and Documents", "driving-licence", "learner-licence", "parivahan", "sarathi", "documents" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "documents", "audience": [ "board-exam-student", "college-student", "job-seeker" ], "stage": [ "class-11-12", "after-12th", "undergraduate", "graduate-unemployed" ], "type": "how-to", "last_verified": "2026-10-02", "sources": [ { "title": "Parivahan: minimum age for a driving licence", "url": "https://parivahan.gov.in/en/node/110" }, { "title": "Parivahan: licensing fees and charges", "url": "https://parivahan.gov.in/en/content/licensing-related-fees-charges" }, { "title": "Parivahan Sarathi: online licence services", "url": "https://sarathi.parivahan.gov.in/sarathiservice" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/get-a-pan-card/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/get-a-pan-card/", "title": "How to get a PAN card", "summary": "If you are 18 or older and your mobile is linked to Aadhaar, you can get an e-PAN free and in minutes on the Income Tax e-filing website. A printed PAN card costs Rs 107 through Protean or UTIITSL. A child's PAN is applied for by a parent, with the parent's documents. If you got your PAN before 1 July 2017, link it with Aadhaar.", "content_text": "## Who needs a PAN?\n\nPAN (Permanent Account Number) is your income tax ID. You need it to file income tax, for many bank and money matters, and often when you start a salaried job.\n\n## Free instant e-PAN (18 or older)\n\n1. Go to **incometax.gov.in** and choose **Instant e-PAN**.\n2. Click **Get New e-PAN** and enter your Aadhaar number.\n3. Enter the OTP sent to your Aadhaar-linked mobile and confirm your details.\n4. Note the acknowledgement number. Download your e-PAN later from **Check Status / Download PAN**.\n\n## Printed PAN card (Rs 107)\n\nApply online with **Protean** or **UTIITSL**. You need proof of identity, address and date of birth. The fee is **Rs 107** for a printed card sent to an Indian address, which includes the e-PAN.\n\n## Official links\n\n- Instant e-PAN: incometax.gov.in (https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/help/how-to-generate-instant-e-pan)\n- Protean: tinpan.proteantech.in (https://tinpan.proteantech.in/)\n- UTIITSL: pan.utiitsl.com (https://www.pan.utiitsl.com/PAN/)\n\nDo not pay agents for an e-PAN. It is free on the official website.", "date_published": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "ID Cards and Documents", "pan", "income-tax", "e-pan", "documents" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "documents", "audience": [ "college-student", "job-seeker", "parent" ], "stage": [ "undergraduate", "postgraduate", "graduate-unemployed", "working-upskilling" ], "type": "how-to", "last_verified": "2026-10-02", "sources": [ { "title": "Income Tax Department: how to generate instant e-PAN (free)", "url": "https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/help/how-to-generate-instant-e-pan" }, { "title": "Protean: PAN FAQs and fees", "url": "https://tinpan.proteantech.in/faqs/pan/faq-pan-procedure.html" }, { "title": "UTIITSL: PAN services", "url": "https://www.pan.utiitsl.com/PAN/" }, { "title": "Income Tax Department: link Aadhaar FAQ", "url": "https://www.incometax.gov.in/iec/foportal/help/e-filing-link-aadhaar-faq" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/get-a-voter-id/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/get-a-voter-id/", "title": "How to get your Voter ID card", "summary": "If you are 18, or will turn 18 on 1 January, 1 April, 1 July or 1 October, you can apply for a Voter ID (EPIC) free on voters.eci.gov.in or the Voter Helpline app using Form 6. Use Form 8 to correct details or shift your address. You can download an e-EPIC from the same portal. The voter helpline is 1950.", "content_text": "## Who is this for?\n\nYoung people turning 18, and anyone who needs to correct or move their Voter ID. A Voter ID lets you vote and is also a common proof of identity and address.\n\n## How to apply\n\n1. Go to **voters.eci.gov.in** or open the **Voter Helpline** app. Sign up with your mobile number.\n2. Choose **Form 6** (new voter).\n3. Upload a photo, a proof of age and a proof of address.\n4. Submit and note the reference number to track it.\n\n## Documents\n\n- **Age proof:** birth certificate, Class 10 or 12 certificate, Aadhaar, PAN, passport or driving licence\n- **Address proof:** bank or post office passbook, Aadhaar, a utility bill, passport, or a rent or sale deed\n- A recent passport-size photo with a white background\n\n## Official links\n\n- Voters' Service Portal: voters.eci.gov.in (https://voters.eci.gov.in/)\n- Voter helpline: **1950**", "date_published": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "ID Cards and Documents", "voter-id", "epic", "election-commission", "form-6", "documents" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "documents", "audience": [ "board-exam-student", "college-student", "job-seeker", "parent" ], "stage": [ "class-11-12", "after-12th", "undergraduate" ], "type": "how-to", "last_verified": "2026-10-02", "sources": [ { "title": "Election Commission of India: Voters' Service Portal", "url": "https://voters.eci.gov.in/" }, { "title": "Form 6: application for new voters", "url": "https://voters.eci.gov.in/formspdf/Form_6_English.pdf" }, { "title": "Form 8: shifting, correction and replacement", "url": "https://voters.eci.gov.in/formspdf/Form_8_English.pdf" }, { "title": "PIB: four qualifying dates for young voters", "url": "https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1845738" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/open-a-bank-account/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/open-a-bank-account/", "title": "How to open a free bank account for a student or family", "summary": "A Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) account needs no minimum balance and comes with a RuPay card. Children over 10 can open and run their own account. Take one officially valid document, such as Aadhaar, Voter ID, passport, driving licence or an NREGA job card. Scholarships are paid into an account linked (seeded) with your Aadhaar, so ask the bank to seed it.", "content_text": "## Why it matters\n\nScholarships and many government benefits are paid straight into a bank account (Direct Benefit Transfer). Some scholarships need the account in the **student's own name**, so check your scheme's rules.\n\n## How to open one\n\n1. Visit any bank branch, or your post office for an India Post Payments Bank account.\n2. Ask for a **Jan Dhan (PMJDY)** or **basic savings (BSBDA)** account. Both need no minimum balance.\n3. Fill the form and show one **officially valid document**.\n4. Ask the bank to **link (seed) your Aadhaar** to the account for government payments.\n\n## Documents banks accept (officially valid documents)\n\nAadhaar, Voter ID, passport, driving licence, NREGA job card, or an NPR letter. Take a photo too.\n\n## What you get with Jan Dhan\n\n- No minimum balance\n- A RuPay debit card\n- Accident insurance of Rs 2 lakh for accounts opened after 28 August 2018\n\n## Official links\n\n- Jan Dhan Yojana: pmjdy.gov.in (https://pmjdy.gov.in/)\n- Check Aadhaar seeding: ask your bank, or use NPCI's Bharat Aadhaar Seeding Enabler (BASE)\n\nNever share your ATM PIN, OTP or UPI PIN with anyone.", "date_published": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "ID Cards and Documents", "bank-account", "jan-dhan", "pmjdy", "scholarships", "dbt", "documents" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "documents", "audience": [ "school-student", "college-student", "parent", "job-seeker" ], "stage": [ "class-9-10", "class-11-12", "undergraduate", "graduate-unemployed" ], "type": "how-to", "last_verified": "2026-10-02", "sources": [ { "title": "PMJDY: scheme features", "url": "https://pmjdy.gov.in/scheme" }, { "title": "RBI: KYC Master Direction (officially valid documents, small accounts)", "url": "https://www.rbi.org.in/commonman/English/scripts/notification.aspx?id=2607" }, { "title": "RBI: Basic Savings Bank Deposit Account", "url": "https://rbi.org.in/commonperson/english/Scripts/SMSBSBDA.aspx" }, { "title": "RBI: accounts for minors (April 2025)", "url": "https://www.rbi.org.in/Scripts/NotificationUser.aspx?Id=12835&Mode=0" }, { "title": "NSP: scholarship paid to an Aadhaar-seeded bank account", "url": "https://scholarships.gov.in/public/schemeGuidelines/FAQ_DOHE_CSSS.pdf" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/register-at-employment-office/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/register-at-employment-office/", "title": "Register at the employment office in Tamil Nadu", "summary": "Register your qualifications with the Tamil Nadu employment exchange online on tnvelaivaaippu.gov.in, and renew it every three years. Keeping it active matters for the monthly unemployment assistance, which needs at least five years of continuous registration. You can also register free on the National Career Service, ncs.gov.in, for jobs and job fairs.", "content_text": "## Register online\n\n1. Go to **tnvelaivaaippu.gov.in** and choose new registration.\n2. Fill in your personal details and your education.\n3. Note your registration number. **Renew every three years**, and add new qualifications as you pass them.\n\nYou can also register or renew at an **e-Sevai centre**, or at the **District Employment and Career Guidance Centre**.\n\n## Unemployment assistance\n\nGet the form from the District Employment and Career Guidance Centre, or download it from tnvelaivaaippu.gov.in, and submit it at the centre. See the questions below for who can apply.\n\n## National Career Service\n\nRegister free on **ncs.gov.in** as a job seeker to apply for jobs and join job fairs. NCS never charges a fee. Beware of fake websites that copy it.\n\n## Official links\n\n- Tamil Nadu employment exchange: tnvelaivaaippu.gov.in (https://tnvelaivaaippu.gov.in/)\n- National Career Service: ncs.gov.in (https://www.ncs.gov.in/) ยท helpline **1514**", "date_published": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "ID Cards and Documents", "employment-exchange", "tnvelaivaaippu", "unemployment-assistance", "ncs", "jobs" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "documents", "audience": [ "job-seeker", "college-student", "out-of-school-youth" ], "stage": [ "after-10th", "after-12th", "undergraduate", "graduate-unemployed" ], "type": "how-to", "last_verified": "2026-10-02", "sources": [ { "title": "Cuddalore District: employment and training (online registration, renewal every 3 years)", "url": "https://cuddalore.nic.in/employment-and-training/" }, { "title": "Ramanathapuram District: District Employment and Career Guidance Centre (unemployment assistance)", "url": "https://ramanathapuram.nic.in/departments/district-employment-and-career-guidance-centre/" }, { "title": "Tamil Nadu employment exchange portal", "url": "https://tnvelaivaaippu.gov.in/" }, { "title": "National Career Service: job seekers (free, helpline 1514)", "url": "https://www.ncs.gov.in/job-seeker/Pages/default.aspx" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/tamil-nadu-ration-card/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/tamil-nadu-ration-card/", "title": "Tamil Nadu smart family card (ration card): apply or update", "summary": "The smart family card (ration card) is used to buy PDS rations, and is needed for many schemes, such as the Chief Minister's health insurance. Apply for a new card, add or remove a member, or change the address online on tnpds.gov.in, or at an e-Sevai centre. The Taluk Supply Officer checks the request, and the card is given at your fair price shop. The PDS helpline is 1967.", "content_text": "## What you can do\n\nOn **tnpds.gov.in**, or at an **e-Sevai centre**, you can:\n\n- Apply for a new smart family card\n- Add a member, or remove one\n- Change the address or the family head\n- Correct a name or age\n- Check the status of your request\n\n## How it works\n\n1. Apply online on **tnpds.gov.in**, or at an e-Sevai centre with your documents.\n2. The **Taluk Supply Officer** checks your application.\n3. Collect the card at your **fair price shop** (ration shop).\n\n## Keep ready\n\nAadhaar of each family member (over 5), a birth certificate for children under 5, and proof of your address.\n\n## Official links\n\n- TNPDS: tnpds.gov.in (https://tnpds.gov.in/)\n- PDS helpline: **1967**", "date_published": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "ID Cards and Documents", "ration-card", "smart-card", "pds", "tamil-nadu", "documents" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "documents", "audience": [ "parent", "job-seeker" ], "stage": [ "working-upskilling", "graduate-unemployed" ], "type": "how-to", "last_verified": "2026-10-02", "sources": [ { "title": "Krishnagiri District: public distribution system services (online services list)", "url": "https://krishnagiri.nic.in/service/public-distribution-system-services/" }, { "title": "Tiruvannamalai District: public distribution services (helpline 1967)", "url": "https://tiruvannamalai.nic.in/service/public-distribution-services/" }, { "title": "Mayiladuthurai District: supply office (e-Sevai, Taluk Supply Officer, fair price shop)", "url": "https://mayiladuthurai.nic.in/district-supply-and-consumer-protection-office/" }, { "title": "TNPDS (official portal)", "url": "https://tnpds.gov.in/" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/udid-disability-card/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/udid-disability-card/", "title": "UDID card: disability certificate and ID, how to apply", "summary": "The UDID (Unique Disability ID) card and disability certificate are issued through the government portal swavlambancard.gov.in. Register and apply online, or apply at a counter or camp run by the District Welfare Officer. A medical board assesses the disability. You can track the application, renew and download the certificate on the same portal.", "content_text": "## Why it matters\n\nThe UDID card is one national ID for persons with disabilities. It is used for disability scholarships, concessions and government schemes.\n\n## How to apply\n\n1. Go to **swavlambancard.gov.in**, register, and choose to apply for a disability certificate and UDID card.\n2. Fill in your details and upload a photo, signature or thumbprint, an ID proof and your medical records.\n3. Submit and note the enrolment number.\n4. Go for assessment by the **medical board** at the hospital when called.\n5. Track your application and download the certificate on the portal.\n\n## Offline\n\nApply at a counter or camp run by the **District Welfare Officer** for persons with disabilities.\n\n## Official links\n\n- UDID portal: swavlambancard.gov.in (https://swavlambancard.gov.in/)\n- Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities: depwd.gov.in (https://depwd.gov.in/en/unique-disability-id-udid/)", "date_published": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "ID Cards and Documents", "udid", "disability-certificate", "persons-with-disabilities", "documents" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "documents", "audience": [ "persons-with-disabilities", "parent", "school-student", "college-student" ], "stage": [ "class-6-8", "class-9-10", "class-11-12", "undergraduate" ], "type": "how-to", "last_verified": "2026-10-02", "sources": [ { "title": "Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities: UDID", "url": "https://depwd.gov.in/en/unique-disability-id-udid/" }, { "title": "UDID portal (Swavlamban Card)", "url": "https://swavlambancard.gov.in/" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/update-aadhaar-address/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/update-aadhaar-address/", "title": "How to update your address in Aadhaar", "summary": "You can change your Aadhaar address online on the myAadhaar portal or the Aadhaar app if your mobile number is linked to Aadhaar, or at any Aadhaar centre, including many post offices and banks. The fee is Rs 75. You need one proof of address in your own name, such as a bank passbook, ration card, voter ID, passport or a recent electricity bill.", "content_text": "## Who is this for?\n\nAnyone who has moved house, or whose Aadhaar address is wrong. A correct address helps with scholarships, bank accounts and certificates.\n\n## Online, if your mobile is linked to Aadhaar\n\n1. Go to **myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in** (or open the Aadhaar app) and log in with your Aadhaar number and OTP.\n2. Choose **Address Update**.\n3. Enter the new address and upload one proof of address (PDF or photo).\n4. Pay **Rs 75** and submit.\n5. Save the **SRN** (request number) to track your request.\n\n## At an Aadhaar centre\n\nAadhaar centres run in many **post offices, banks and government offices**. Take your Aadhaar and the original proof of address. The operator updates it and gives you a **URN** slip. Find a centre or book a free appointment at **bookappointment.uidai.gov.in**.\n\n## Proof of address UIDAI accepts (common ones)\n\n- Bank or post office passbook with photo, or a statement not older than 3 months\n- Ration card (PDS photo card)\n- Voter ID\n- Passport\n- Electricity, water, gas or landline bill, not older than 3 months\n- Property tax receipt, not older than 1 year\n- Rent or lease agreement\n- Certificate in UIDAI's format from a Village Panchayat head or VAO (for rural areas)\n\nThe document must be in your own name and currently valid. See UIDAI's full list (https://uidai.gov.in/images/commdoc/List_of_Supporting_Document_for_Aadhaar_Enrolment_and_Update.pdf) before you apply.\n\n## Official links\n\n- myAadhaar: myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in (https://myaadhaar.uidai.gov.in/)\n- Book an appointment: bookappointment.uidai.gov.in (https://bookappointment.uidai.gov.in/)\n- UIDAI helpline: **1947**\n\nNever share your Aadhaar OTP with anyone, and never pay an agent extra.", "date_published": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "ID Cards and Documents", "aadhaar", "address-update", "uidai", "myaadhaar", "documents" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "documents", "audience": [ "school-student", "college-student", "parent", "job-seeker" ], "stage": [ "class-11-12", "undergraduate", "graduate-unemployed", "working-upskilling" ], "type": "how-to", "last_verified": "2026-10-02", "sources": [ { "title": "UIDAI: myAadhaar services and fees (address update Rs 75)", "url": "https://uidai.gov.in/en/my-aadhaar" }, { "title": "UIDAI: updating data on Aadhaar (online and at a centre)", "url": "https://uidai.gov.in/en/updating-data-on-aadhaar" }, { "title": "UIDAI: list of acceptable supporting documents", "url": "https://uidai.gov.in/images/commdoc/List_of_Supporting_Document_for_Aadhaar_Enrolment_and_Update.pdf" }, { "title": "UIDAI: announcements (free online document update extended to 14 June 2027)", "url": "https://uidai.gov.in/en/announcements" }, { "title": "UIDAI: Aadhaar Seva Kendra, centre locator and appointments", "url": "https://uidai.gov.in/en/aadhaar-seva-kendra" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/use-digilocker/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/use-digilocker/", "title": "DigiLocker: keep your certificates safe on your phone", "summary": "DigiLocker is the government's free document wallet. Sign up with your mobile and Aadhaar, then fetch documents issued directly by departments, boards and universities. Documents in the 'Issued documents' section are legally equal to the physical originals. Files you upload yourself are only copies.", "content_text": "## How to start\n\n1. Download the **DigiLocker** app or go to **digilocker.gov.in**.\n2. Sign up with your mobile number and verify with Aadhaar.\n3. Go to **Search documents**, choose the department, board or university, and fetch your document.\n4. Your document appears under **Issued documents**.\n\n## Good to know\n\n- Up to five Aadhaar-verified accounts can share one mobile number, useful for a family.\n- Keep your DigiLocker PIN private.\n\n## Official link\n\n- DigiLocker: digilocker.gov.in (https://www.digilocker.gov.in/)", "date_published": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-10-02T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "ID Cards and Documents", "digilocker", "certificates", "marksheets", "documents" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "documents", "audience": [ "school-student", "college-student", "job-seeker", "parent" ], "stage": [ "class-11-12", "after-12th", "undergraduate", "graduate-unemployed" ], "type": "how-to", "last_verified": "2026-10-02", "sources": [ { "title": "DigiLocker: terms of use (June 2025)", "url": "https://cdn.digilocker.gov.in/circulars/termsofuse/DigiLocker-Terms-of-Use-Users-june-2025.pdf" }, { "title": "DigiLocker: ask an expert (FAQ)", "url": "https://www.digilocker.gov.in/assets/DIGILOCKER%20ASK%20EXPERT.pdf" }, { "title": "DigiLocker", "url": "https://www.digilocker.gov.in/" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/scholarships/avoid-scholarship-scams/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/scholarships/avoid-scholarship-scams/", "title": "How to avoid scholarship scams", "summary": "Real government scholarships are applied for on official websites such as scholarships.gov.in, and registration on the National Scholarship Portal is free. Be careful of anyone who asks for money, passwords, OTPs or bank details to \"get\" you a scholarship. If you are cheated or see a fake offer, report it on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, cybercrime.gov.in.", "content_text": "## Who is this guide for?\n\nThis guide is for students and parents who get messages, calls or advertisements about scholarships and want to know which ones are real. After reading it you will know the warning signs, what the official portal really charges, and where to report fraud.\n\n## What does a real government scholarship look like?\n\nMost central government scholarships are applied for on the **National Scholarship Portal (NSP)** at **scholarships.gov.in**. Some facts from NSP's own pages help you spot fakes:\n\n- **Registration is free.** NSP's One Time Registration (OTR) FAQ says OTR is free and needs no payment.\n- **The only fixed charge is at a Common Service Centre.** If you use a CSC, NSP fixes the total charge for the entire process, including filling the full application, at **Rs 30**.\n- **Money is paid to your own bank account.** Scholarships are paid by Direct Benefit Transfer into the student's bank account after verification. You never pay money to receive a scholarship.\n- **You can check your own status.** Log in to scholarships.gov.in with your OTR to see all your applications.\n\n## What are the warning signs of a scam?\n\n| Warning sign | Why it matters |\n|---|---|\n| You are asked to pay a \"registration\", \"processing\" or \"release\" fee | NSP registration is free; scholarships are not released after a payment |\n| Someone asks for your OTP, password or ATM PIN | No genuine scholarship officer needs these |\n| You \"won\" a scholarship you never applied for | Real scholarships need an application and verification |\n| The website is not scholarships.gov.in, or looks slightly different | Fake sites copy the look of real ones |\n| Pressure to act \"today\" or lose the money | Real schemes have published deadlines on the official site |\n| Messages from personal numbers or free email IDs | Check the contact on the official website instead |\n| An agent promises a guaranteed scholarship for a fee | Selection follows each scheme's published rules |\n\n## How do you check an offer before you act?\n\n1. **Do not click links in messages.** Type scholarships.gov.in yourself, or the official website named in the scheme.\n2. **Look for the scheme in the official list.** On NSP, open the scheme list and find the scheme and its closing date.\n3. **Search the number or website.** The National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal has a **suspect repository** where you can search mobile numbers, email IDs, bank account numbers and website URLs.\n4. **Ask your school or college.** Your institution verifies NSP applications, so it can tell you whether an offer is real.\n5. **Ask SEEDbridge.** Our volunteers will check with you for free.\n\n## What should you do if you have been cheated?\n\n1. **Stop all contact** and do not pay any more money.\n2. **If money was taken from your bank account,** call your bank at once, using the number on your passbook or the bank's official website, and ask them to block further transactions.\n3. **Report it** on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, **cybercrime.gov.in**. You can report financial fraud and also report suspect phone numbers, WhatsApp numbers, websites and social media accounts.\n4. **Keep evidence:** screenshots of messages, the phone number, the website link and any payment receipts.\n\nThe Cyber Crime portal also warns that fake emails are being sent in the name of officials of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre and other agencies. Real officials will not threaten you by email.\n\n## Need help?\n\nIf you are not sure whether an offer is real, ask SEEDbridge before you pay or share anything. Our help is always free, and we will never ask for your Aadhaar number, bank details, passwords or OTPs.", "date_published": "2026-09-29T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-09-30T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "Scholarships", "scholarship-scams", "online-safety", "national-scholarship-portal", "cybercrime" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "scholarships", "audience": [ "school-student", "college-student", "parent" ], "stage": [ "class-9-10", "class-11-12", "undergraduate", "postgraduate" ], "type": "guide", "last_verified": "2026-09-29", "sources": [ { "title": "NSP: Frequently Asked Questions on One-Time Registration (OTR is free; CSC charge Rs 30)", "url": "https://scholarships.gov.in/public/FAQ/OTR%20FAQ%20v1.4.pdf" }, { "title": "National Scholarship Portal: home page and announcements", "url": "https://scholarships.gov.in/" }, { "title": "National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, Ministry of Home Affairs", "url": "https://cybercrime.gov.in/" }, { "title": "National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal: search the suspect repository", "url": "https://cybercrime.gov.in/Webform/suspect_search_repository.aspx" }, { "title": "National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal: report a suspect", "url": "https://cybercrime.gov.in/Webform/cyber_suspect.aspx" }, { "title": "PIB: National Cyber Crime Helpline 1930 works 24x7", "url": "https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2085609" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/school-success/build-a-reading-habit/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/school-success/build-a-reading-habit/", "title": "How to build a reading habit, for free", "summary": "Reading for 15 to 20 minutes a day, about anything you enjoy, is the easiest way to start. You do not need to buy books: StoryWeaver has free storybooks in hundreds of languages, the National Digital Library of India has free study material, and NCERT textbooks are free to read online. For news, use official sources such as the Press Information Bureau and All India Radio.", "content_text": "## Who is this guide for?\n\nThis guide is for school students who want to read more, and for parents and teachers who want to help them. After reading it, you will have a simple daily plan, a list of free places to find books on a phone, and a way to follow the news from sources you can trust.\n\n## Why does reading every day help?\n\nStudents who read regularly usually find it easier to understand lessons, write answers and speak with confidence. Reading also makes you curious: one good book leads to new questions, and new questions lead to new books. You do not need to read a lot. A little, every day, is enough.\n\n## How do you start? A simple plan\n\n1. **Pick a time.** For example, 15 minutes before sleeping, or on the bus. Keep the same time every day.\n2. **Pick what you like.** Stories, comics, science, sport, history, biographies. Any reading counts.\n3. **Start small.** Ten minutes is fine for the first week. Add five minutes each week.\n4. **Keep a list.** Write the name of each book or article you finish in a notebook. Watching the list grow is encouraging.\n5. **Talk about it.** Tell a friend, a parent or a teacher one interesting thing you read. Explaining helps you remember.\n6. **Read with younger children.** Reading aloud to a brother, sister or cousin helps both of you.\n\n## Where can you find free books?\n\n| Where | What you will find |\n|---|---|\n| StoryWeaver (storyweaver.org.in) | Free storybooks for children in hundreds of languages, to read on a phone |\n| National Digital Library of India (ndl.iitkgp.ac.in) | Free books and study material, from school to university |\n| NCERT textbooks (ncert.nic.in) | Free textbooks for Classes 1 to 12, to read online or download |\n| National Book Trust, India (nbtindia.gov.in) | Low-cost books in Indian languages, and book fairs |\n| Your school library and the public library near you | Free books to borrow. Ask the librarian for suggestions |\n\n## How do you follow the news?\n\nReading a little news each day helps with general knowledge, interviews and competitive exams.\n\n- **Read one news item a day.** Pick one story and read it fully, rather than many headlines.\n- **Use trusted sources.** The Press Information Bureau (pib.gov.in) publishes official announcements from the Government of India. Akashvani News (newsonair.gov.in) is the news service of All India Radio. A daily newspaper at your school or library is also a good habit.\n- **Be careful with forwards.** Messages that say \"share this now\" are often false. Check the same news on a trusted source before you believe or share it.\n- **Ask questions.** When you read a news story, ask: who, what, where, when, why and how? Look up any word you do not know.\n\n## How can parents and teachers help?\n\n- Keep a few books or old newspapers at home where children can see them.\n- Read for 10 minutes yourself while children read. Children copy what they see.\n- Ask children to tell you about what they read, and listen without correcting.\n- Start a reading corner or a reading circle in the classroom or the village.\n\n## Need help?\n\nIf you would like suggestions for books on a subject you enjoy, or help using the free libraries above, ask our volunteers (/en/help/#ask). Our help is always free.", "date_published": "2026-09-30T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-09-30T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "School Success", "reading", "books", "news", "curiosity", "free-resources" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "school-success", "audience": [ "school-student", "parent", "teacher" ], "stage": [ "class-6-8", "class-9-10", "class-11-12" ], "type": "guide", "last_verified": "2026-09-30", "sources": [ { "title": "StoryWeaver, Pratham Books: free children's storybooks", "url": "https://storyweaver.org.in/" }, { "title": "National Digital Library of India (NDLI), IIT Kharagpur", "url": "https://ndl.iitkgp.ac.in/" }, { "title": "NCERT textbooks (free to read and download)", "url": "https://ncert.nic.in/textbook.php" }, { "title": "National Book Trust, India", "url": "https://www.nbtindia.gov.in/" }, { "title": "Press Information Bureau, Government of India", "url": "https://www.pib.gov.in/" }, { "title": "Akashvani News, All India Radio", "url": "https://www.newsonair.gov.in/" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/wellbeing/free-help-when-you-feel-stressed/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/wellbeing/free-help-when-you-feel-stressed/", "title": "Feeling stressed or low? Where to get free, confidential help", "summary": "It is normal to feel stressed or low sometimes, and it is a good thing to ask for help. You can call Tele-MANAS on 14416 (or 1-800-891-4416) for free, confidential support from trained counsellors, day and night. School students in Tamil Nadu can also call the student helpline 14417. If anyone is in danger, call 112, or 1098 for a child.", "content_text": "## Who is this guide for?\n\nThis guide is for students and young people who feel stressed, worried, sad or alone, and for parents and friends who want to help. After reading it, you will know which free helplines you can call today, and some simple things that help.\n\n**If you or someone else is in danger right now, call 112. For a child under 18, you can also call 1098.**\n\n## Is it okay to ask for help?\n\nYes. Exams, family problems, money worries, friendships and looking for work can all feel heavy. Many young people feel this way. Talking to someone is a sign of strength, not weakness, and help is free.\n\n## Who can you call?\n\n| Helpline | Number | What it is for |\n|---|---|---|\n| Tele-MANAS | 14416 or 1-800-891-4416 | Free, confidential support from trained mental health counsellors, day and night, in 20 Indian languages. Run by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. |\n| Tamil Nadu student helpline | 14417 | Tamil Nadu School Education Department helpline for students: feeling unsafe, harassment, exam worries and career guidance. |\n| Child Helpline | 1098 | For any child under 18 who is unsafe, abused or in trouble. Free, day and night. |\n| Emergency | 112 | When someone is in danger right now. |\n\n## What happens when you call Tele-MANAS?\n\nYou speak to a trained counsellor. You can tell them as much or as little as you like. They listen, help you think through what is happening, and if you need more help, they can connect you to a mental health professional or a service near you.\n\n## Small things that help\n\n- **Talk to one person you trust:** a parent, a teacher, a friend or a relative.\n- **Keep a routine:** regular sleep, meals and a short walk each day.\n- **Break big tasks into small steps,** especially before exams.\n- **Take a break from your phone** for some time each day, especially before sleeping.\n- **Be kind to yourself.** One bad mark or one failed interview does not decide your future.\n\nThese help with everyday stress. If you feel low most days for more than two weeks, or you think about hurting yourself, please call Tele-MANAS on 14416 today.\n\n## For parents and teachers\n\n- Notice changes: a child who stops eating, sleeping, talking or going to school may be struggling.\n- Ask gently, and listen without scolding.\n- Do not wait. Call Tele-MANAS on 14416 for advice on how to help.\n\n## Need help?\n\nSEEDbridge volunteers can help you find a counsellor or the right service. Ask our volunteers (/en/help/#ask). Our volunteers are not counsellors, so if you need to talk to someone today, call 14416.", "date_published": "2026-09-30T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-09-30T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "Wellbeing and Life Skills", "mental-health", "stress", "tele-manas", "helplines", "exams" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "wellbeing", "audience": [ "school-student", "college-student", "out-of-school-youth", "job-seeker", "parent" ], "stage": [ "class-9-10", "class-11-12", "undergraduate", "graduate-unemployed" ], "type": "guide", "last_verified": "2026-09-30", "sources": [ { "title": "Ministry of Health and Family Welfare: Tele-MANAS (PIB, October 2024)", "url": "https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2063830" }, { "title": "Tele-MANAS official website", "url": "https://telemanas.mohfw.gov.in/" }, { "title": "Department of School Education, Tamil Nadu: contact and helpline 14417", "url": "https://tnschools.gov.in/contact-us" }, { "title": "Ministry of Women and Child Development: Child Helpline 1098", "url": "https://wcd.gov.in/child/child-helpline" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/scholarships/scholarships-for-girls/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/scholarships/scholarships-for-girls/", "title": "Scholarships for girls: central schemes open in 2026-27", "summary": "The main central scholarship only for girls is AICTE Pragati: Rs 50,000 a year for girls starting an AICTE-approved degree or diploma, with family income up to Rs 8 lakh. Several other central scholarships keep 30% to 50% of their places for girls. For 2026-27, apply on the National Scholarship Portal; most of these close on 31 October 2026.", "content_text": "## Who is this guide for?\n\nThis guide is for girls and young women who are about to start, or are studying, a diploma, degree or school course, and for their parents. It lists the central government scholarships on the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) that are only for girls or keep places for girls in 2026-27, with the rules from each scheme's official guidelines.\n\nTo apply for any of these you need a One Time Registration (OTR) number on NSP. Our National Scholarship Portal guide (/en/scholarships/national-scholarship-portal-guide/) explains how to get one.\n\n## What is the AICTE Pragati scholarship?\n\n**AICTE Pragati** is a scholarship from the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) only for girls in technical education. There are two versions: one for degree courses (such as B.E. or B.Tech) and one for diploma courses (such as polytechnic diplomas), in institutions approved by AICTE.\n\n| Detail | Pragati (Degree) | Pragati (Diploma) |\n|---|---|---|\n| Who can apply | Girls admitted to the first year of a degree, or the second year by lateral entry | Girls admitted to the first year of a diploma, or the second year by lateral entry |\n| Family income limit | Up to Rs 8 lakh a year, with a state or UT income certificate | Up to Rs 8 lakh a year, with a state or UT income certificate |\n| Girls per family | Up to two | Up to two |\n| Selected on | Class 12 (or equivalent) marks, state-wise merit | Class 10 (or equivalent) marks, state-wise merit |\n| Amount | Rs 50,000 a year, up to 4 years (3 for lateral entry) | Rs 50,000 a year, up to 3 years (2 for lateral entry) |\n| 2026-27 dates on NSP | Opened 1 June 2026, closes 31 October 2026 | Opened 1 June 2026, closes 31 October 2026 |\n\nThe money is paid once a year by Direct Benefit Transfer and can be used for college fees, a computer, books, equipment and software. The gap between your qualifying exam and admission must not be more than two years. To keep the scholarship next year, you must pass and be promoted.\n\n## Which other scholarships keep places for girls?\n\nSome central scholarships are open to everyone but reserve a share of places for girls:\n\n| Scholarship | Places for girls | Who it is for | 2026-27 closing date on NSP |\n|---|---|---|---|\n| PM-USP Central Sector Scholarship for College and University Students | 50% of scholarships | Students above the 80th percentile in Class 12, family income up to Rs 4.5 lakh | Renewals only listed for 2026-27 |\n| Pre-Matric, Post-Matric and Top Class scholarships for students with disabilities | 50% of slots | Students with 40% or more disability | Pre-Matric 30 September 2026; others 31 October 2026 |\n| Top Class Education in Schools for OBC, EBC and DNT students (PM YASASVI) | At least 30% | Students in selected Top Class Schools, household income under Rs 2.5 lakh | 30 September 2026 |\n\nFor the disability scholarships, the guidelines say that if not enough eligible girls apply, the unused places go to boys, so applying on time matters.\n\n## What documents will you need?\n\n- An **income certificate** issued by the state government (Pragati asks for a valid state or UT certificate).\n- Your **mark sheet** (Class 12 for degree, Class 10 for diploma).\n- **Aadhaar**, or an Aadhaar Enrolment ID, for your NSP One Time Registration.\n- A **bank account** in your own name, linked to Aadhaar, because scholarships are paid by Direct Benefit Transfer.\n- For disability scholarships: your disability certificate and **UDID**.\n\n## What are the most common mistakes?\n\n- **Missing the institute verification.** After you submit, your college must verify your application before its own deadline. Remind them.\n- **An old income certificate.** Pragati asks for income in the current financial year.\n- **Taking two scholarships that do not allow it.** Pragati does not allow any other scholarship or stipend at the same time.\n- **Waiting for the last day.** NSP can be slow near deadlines.\n\n## Need help?\n\nSEEDbridge volunteers can check which of these fit you and guide you through the NSP form, free of charge. Never share your Aadhaar, bank details or OTPs with anyone who offers to \"get\" you a scholarship.", "date_published": "2026-09-29T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-09-30T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "Scholarships", "scholarships-for-girls", "aicte-pragati", "national-scholarship-portal" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "scholarships", "audience": [ "women", "school-student", "college-student", "parent" ], "stage": [ "after-10th", "after-12th", "undergraduate", "diploma-iti", "class-9-10" ], "type": "guide", "last_verified": "2026-09-29", "sources": [ { "title": "National Scholarship Portal: all schemes and closing dates (2026-27)", "url": "https://scholarships.gov.in/All-Scholarships" }, { "title": "AICTE Pragati: general instructions for 2026-27 (Rs 50,000 a year, income below Rs 8 lakh)", "url": "https://www.aicte-india.org/schemes/students-development-schemes/Pragati/General-Instructions" }, { "title": "AICTE Pragati Scholarship for Girl Students (Degree): guidelines", "url": "https://scholarships.gov.in/public/schemeGuidelines/AICTE/AICTE_2010_G.pdf" }, { "title": "AICTE Pragati Scholarship for Girl Students (Diploma): guidelines", "url": "https://scholarships.gov.in/public/schemeGuidelines/AICTE/AICTE_2011_G.pdf" }, { "title": "PM-USP CSSS guidelines (50% earmarked for girls)", "url": "https://scholarships.gov.in/public/schemeGuidelines/CSSS_GUIDLINES_07022024_updated.pdf" }, { "title": "Scholarships for Students with Disabilities: guidelines (50% slots for girls)", "url": "https://scholarships.gov.in/public/schemeGuidelines/DEPDGuidelines_1.pdf" }, { "title": "Top Class Education in Schools for OBC, EBC and DNT Students: guidelines (30% for girls)", "url": "https://scholarships.gov.in/public/schemeGuidelines/3061_G.pdf" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/staying-safe/what-to-do-if-you-are-bullied/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/staying-safe/what-to-do-if-you-are-bullied/", "title": "Bullied or ragged? What to do and who can help", "summary": "Bullying and ragging are never your fault, and you do not have to face them alone. Tell a trusted adult, keep a record of what happened, and report it. College students can call the national Anti-Ragging Helpline on 1800-180-5522. School students in Tamil Nadu can call 14417, and any child can call 1098. Report online harassment on 1930 or cybercrime.gov.in.", "content_text": "## Who is this guide for?\n\nThis guide is for school and college students who are being bullied, ragged or harassed, in person or online, and for parents and teachers who want to help. After reading it, you will know what to do, how to report it and which free helplines to call.\n\n**If you are in danger right now, call 112.**\n\n## It is not your fault\n\nBullying is when someone hurts, threatens, insults or leaves out another person again and again. Ragging is bullying of students, often new students, in colleges and hostels. It can be about your looks, your caste, your religion, your family, your marks or anything else. It is never your fault, and you have the right to be safe.\n\n## What should you do?\n\n1. **Get safe.** Move away and go to a place with adults or friends.\n2. **Tell someone you trust.** A parent, teacher, warden or friend.\n3. **Write down what happened.** The date, time, place, what was said or done, and who saw it. Keep screenshots of messages.\n4. **Report it** to your school or college, and to a helpline.\n5. **Look after yourself.** Talk to someone about how you feel.\n\n## Who can you call?\n\n| If you are | Call | Notes |\n|---|---|---|\n| A college student facing ragging | Anti-Ragging Helpline 1800-180-5522 | Free, day and night. You can also complain at antiragging.in or email helpline@antiragging.in |\n| A school student in Tamil Nadu | Student helpline 14417 | Tamil Nadu School Education Department helpline. Calls are confidential |\n| A child under 18 who is unsafe | Child Helpline 1098 | Free, day and night |\n| Harassed online | Cyber Crime Helpline 1930 | Or report at cybercrime.gov.in |\n| Feeling low because of it | Tele-MANAS 14416 | Free, confidential support from counsellors |\n| In danger right now | 112 | Emergency |\n\n## If the bullying is online\n\n- Do not reply to the bully.\n- Take screenshots of messages, profiles and links before anything is deleted.\n- Block and report the account on the app.\n- Report it on 1930 or cybercrime.gov.in, especially if there are threats, or your photos are shared without permission.\n\n## For parents and teachers\n\n- Signs to notice: a child who does not want to go to school, loses things, has unexplained injuries, or becomes quiet and upset after using the phone.\n- Listen calmly and believe the child. Do not blame them.\n- Talk to the school or college, and ask what action they will take.\n- Help the child call a helpline if they need support.\n\n## Need help?\n\nSEEDbridge volunteers can help you understand your options and reach the right office or helpline. Ask our volunteers (/en/help/#ask). Our help is free and private.", "date_published": "2026-09-30T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-09-30T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "Staying Safe", "bullying", "ragging", "cyberbullying", "helplines", "safety" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "staying-safe", "audience": [ "school-student", "college-student", "parent", "teacher" ], "stage": [ "class-6-8", "class-9-10", "class-11-12", "undergraduate", "postgraduate" ], "type": "how-to", "last_verified": "2026-09-30", "sources": [ { "title": "UGC: 24x7 Anti-Ragging Helpline", "url": "https://www.ugc.ac.in/page/helpline.aspx" }, { "title": "Anti-Ragging portal (complaints and helpline)", "url": "https://www.antiragging.in/" }, { "title": "Department of School Education, Tamil Nadu: contact and helpline 14417", "url": "https://tnschools.gov.in/contact-us" }, { "title": "Ministry of Women and Child Development: Child Helpline 1098", "url": "https://wcd.gov.in/child/child-helpline" }, { "title": "National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and helpline 1930 (PIB)", "url": "https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2085609" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/fill-online-forms-without-mistakes/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/documents/fill-online-forms-without-mistakes/", "title": "How to fill online application forms without mistakes", "summary": "Most rejected applications fail for small reasons: a name spelt differently on two documents, a bank account not linked to Aadhaar, a blurred upload or a missed verification deadline. Check your details match everywhere, keep documents ready before you start, apply early, and save your application number.", "content_text": "## Who is this checklist for?\n\nThis checklist is for students, parents and job seekers filling online forms for scholarships, schemes, admissions or jobs. Go through each item before you press Submit. Examples come from the National Scholarship Portal (NSP), but the same checks work for most government portals.\n\n## Before you start: is everything ready?\n\n- **Use the official website.** Type the address yourself. For central scholarships it is scholarships.gov.in.\n- **Read the rules first.** Every NSP scheme has a \"Specifications\" link with eligibility, income limits and documents.\n- **Note the closing date,** and the separate date by which your school or college must verify your application.\n- **Keep your mobile phone with you.** OTPs go to the number linked to your Aadhaar.\n- **Scan documents clearly,** in the file type and size the form asks for.\n- **Use a quiet time and a stable connection.** Do not leave it for the last day.\n\n## Do your details match everywhere?\n\nThe most common problem is a detail that is different on two documents.\n\n| Check | Where to compare |\n|---|---|\n| Your name, spelt exactly the same | Aadhaar, mark sheets, bank passbook, certificates |\n| Date of birth | Aadhaar and school records |\n| Father's and mother's names | Certificates and the application |\n| Income and community certificates | Still valid, issued by the right authority, and in the name asked for |\n| Bank account | In the student's own name, active, and seeded (linked) with Aadhaar |\n\nOn NSP you can check bank seeding in your profile with \"Aadhaar Seeding, Check it now\". NSP lists NPCI seeding as \"desired\" when you register, and scholarships are paid by Direct Benefit Transfer, so an unseeded account can delay your money.\n\n## While filling the form\n\n- Fill in capital and small letters as the form asks, and do not use nicknames.\n- Choose the right scheme, class, course and institution from the lists.\n- Enter marks exactly as on the mark sheet.\n- Upload each document in the right place. Open the preview to check it is readable.\n- Read the whole form once more before you submit.\n\n## After you submit\n\n- **Save your application number** and take a screenshot or printout of the acknowledgement.\n- **Tell your school or college** that you have applied, so they verify it before their deadline.\n- **Log in again a few days later** to check the status.\n- **Watch your SMS and email** for requests to correct a \"defective\" application. NSP lists a separate date for defective applications.\n\n## Special cases on the National Scholarship Portal\n\n- **Registered with an Aadhaar Enrolment ID?** Add your Aadhaar within one month, or your OTR may be suspended.\n- **Registered with a parent's Aadhaar and now 18?** Update to your own Aadhaar and redo face authentication. Your e-KYC shows \"pending\" until you do.\n- **Changed details in Aadhaar?** Use \"refresh e-KYC\" in your OTR profile.\n- **Have a disability?** Give consent on the UDID portal before you submit on NSP.\n\n## What should you never do?\n\n- Never share your password, OTP or ATM PIN with anyone, including people who offer help.\n- Never pay an agent to fill a form that is free. On NSP, the only fixed charge is Rs 30 at a Common Service Centre.\n- Never submit someone else's documents or edit a certificate. It can cancel your application.\n\n## Need help?\n\nSEEDbridge volunteers can go through this checklist with you, free of charge. Tell us which form and which step you are stuck on.", "date_published": "2026-09-29T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-09-29T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "ID Cards and Documents", "online-forms", "national-scholarship-portal", "documents", "aadhaar-seeding" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "documents", "audience": [ "job-seeker", "parent", "college-student", "school-student" ], "stage": [ "class-9-10", "class-11-12", "after-12th", "undergraduate", "graduate-unemployed" ], "type": "checklist", "last_verified": "2026-09-29", "sources": [ { "title": "NSP: Frequently Asked Questions on One-Time Registration (version 1.4)", "url": "https://scholarships.gov.in/public/FAQ/OTR%20FAQ%20v1.4.pdf" }, { "title": "National Scholarship Portal: home page and announcements", "url": "https://scholarships.gov.in/" }, { "title": "National Scholarship Portal: all schemes and closing dates", "url": "https://scholarships.gov.in/All-Scholarships" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/skills/free-online-courses-with-certificates/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/skills/free-online-courses-with-certificates/", "title": "Free online courses with certificates for Indian students", "summary": "SWAYAM and NPTEL offer free online courses from Class 9 to postgraduate level, taught by teachers from across India. Learning is free; to get a certificate you pay for and pass an in-person proctored exam. DIKSHA has free school textbooks, videos and courses, including Tamil Nadu content. Skill India Digital Hub lists skill courses and offers a free digital CV.", "content_text": "## Who is this guide for?\n\nThis guide is for school students, college students and job seekers who want to learn a subject or a skill for free, from trusted Indian government platforms. After reading it you will know which platform suits you, how certificates work and what costs to expect.\n\n## Which free platforms should you know about?\n\n| Platform | Best for | Cost | Certificate |\n|---|---|---|---|\n| **SWAYAM** (swayam.gov.in) | Courses from Class 9 to postgraduate level, many subjects | Free to learn | Pay for and pass a proctored exam at a centre |\n| **NPTEL** (nptel.ac.in) | Engineering and science courses, through SWAYAM | Free to learn | Weekly assignments plus a paid, in-person exam |\n| **DIKSHA** (diksha.gov.in) | School textbooks, videos, quizzes and courses, pre-primary to Class 12 | Free | Check each course |\n| **Skill India Digital Hub** (skillindiadigital.gov.in) | Skill courses, skill schemes, jobs, digital CV | Registration and CV free; courses vary | Depends on the course |\n\n## What is SWAYAM and how does it work?\n\n**SWAYAM** is a Government of India programme that puts courses taught in classrooms, from Class 9 to postgraduate level, online for anyone, anywhere, at any time. SWAYAM says all its courses are free of cost to learners and were prepared by more than 1,000 teachers from across the country.\n\nEach SWAYAM course has four parts: video lectures, reading material you can download or print, self-assessment quizzes, and an online discussion forum for doubts. Ten national coordinators produce the courses, including NPTEL for engineering, UGC for non-technical postgraduate subjects and IGNOU for out-of-school students.\n\n**Certificates:** learning is free, but if you want a SWAYAM certificate you must register for the final proctored exam, which has a fee, and attend it in person at a designated centre on a set date. Universities that allow credit transfer can use these marks or certificates.\n\n## What is NPTEL and how do you get certified?\n\n**NPTEL** (National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning), run from IIT Madras, is SWAYAM's national coordinator for engineering. To get an NPTEL certificate you:\n\n1. Join the course (free).\n2. Submit the weekly assignments.\n3. Register and pay for the exam.\n4. Write the in-person proctored exam at a centre.\n\nFor most courses you pass only if your **average assignment score is at least 40 out of 100** and your **final exam score is at least 40 out of 100**. Some courses, such as those with programming exams or medical courses, have different rules shown on the course page.\n\n## What is DIKSHA?\n\n**DIKSHA** is a free national platform for school students and teachers. You can browse textbooks, videos, interactive content and courses by class and subject, and by board or state, including **Tamil Nadu**, NCERT, CBSE and NIOS. It is a good place to revise a school subject or catch up on a topic you missed.\n\n## What is Skill India Digital Hub?\n\n**Skill India Digital Hub** is the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship's portal. It brings together skill courses, government skill schemes such as PMKVY, job openings from the National Career Service, and a free AI-powered digital CV. Not every course listed is free, so check the cost and certificate before you enrol.\n\nJob openings shown there come from employers. Never pay money to get a job, and do not share your Aadhaar or bank details with a recruiter you have not checked.\n\n## How do you choose where to start?\n\n- **In school:** start with DIKSHA for your class and subjects.\n- **In college:** look for SWAYAM or NPTEL courses in your subject, and ask your college whether it gives credit for them.\n- **Looking for work:** build basic computer and communication skills first, then pick a skill course that matches jobs near you.\n\n## What are the most common mistakes?\n\n- **Missing the exam registration date.** SWAYAM and NPTEL exams have registration deadlines on the course page.\n- **Enrolling in too many courses.** One course finished is worth more than five started.\n- **Paying for a \"certificate\" on another website.** SWAYAM and NPTEL certificates come only through their own exams.\n\n## Need help?\n\nSEEDbridge volunteers can help you choose a course and plan your learning, free of charge.", "date_published": "2026-09-29T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-09-29T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "Skills and Free Courses", "free-courses", "swayam", "nptel", "diksha", "skill-india-digital-hub", "certificates" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "skills", "audience": [ "college-student", "job-seeker", "school-student" ], "stage": [ "class-9-10", "class-11-12", "undergraduate", "postgraduate", "graduate-unemployed", "working-upskilling" ], "type": "guide", "last_verified": "2026-09-29", "sources": [ { "title": "About SWAYAM", "url": "https://swayam.gov.in/about" }, { "title": "NPTEL: frequently asked questions (certification)", "url": "https://nptel.ac.in/faq" }, { "title": "DIKSHA", "url": "https://diksha.gov.in/" }, { "title": "Skill India Digital Hub", "url": "https://www.skillindiadigital.gov.in/home" } ] } }, { "id": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/scholarships/national-scholarship-portal-guide/", "url": "https://www.seedbridge.org/en/scholarships/national-scholarship-portal-guide/", "title": "National Scholarship Portal: how to register and apply", "summary": "The National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in) is where you apply for most central government scholarships. First you get a free One Time Registration (OTR) number using Aadhaar and face authentication on the NSP OTR app. Then you log in, apply for the schemes you qualify for before the closing date, and your school or college verifies your application. For 2026-27 the portal opened on 1 June 2026.", "content_text": "## Who is this guide for?\n\nThis guide is for school and college students, and their parents, who want to apply for a central government scholarship on the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) for the 2026-27 academic year. After reading it you will know what to keep ready, how to get your One Time Registration number, and how to apply without common mistakes.\n\nThe official website is **scholarships.gov.in**. Do not use any other website that claims to be the NSP.\n\n## What is the One Time Registration (OTR) number?\n\nThe **One Time Registration (OTR)** number is a 14-digit number that NSP gives you once. It is based on your Aadhaar (or Aadhaar Enrolment ID) and stays the same for your whole time as a student, so you do not have to register again every year. NSP says OTR has been required to apply for scholarships since 2024-25. Your OTR is also your username when you log in, and it links all your applications in one place.\n\nOTR is free. If you get help at a **Common Service Centre (CSC)**, the total charge for everything, including face authentication, getting the OTR and filling the full application, is **Rs 30**, according to NSP. You can find a nearby CSC at locator.csccloud.in.\n\n## What do you need before you start?\n\n| What you need | Why | If you do not have it |\n|---|---|---|\n| Aadhaar number | To complete e-KYC and face authentication | Use your Aadhaar Enrolment ID slip, or a parent's or guardian's Aadhaar if you are a minor |\n| Mobile number linked to Aadhaar | OTPs and your Reference number are sent here | Link your mobile to Aadhaar first |\n| An active mobile number | For messages from NSP | |\n| Bank account seeded with Aadhaar (NPCI seeding) | Scholarships are paid by Direct Benefit Transfer | NSP lists this as \"desired\". Check the status in your OTR profile |\n| An Android phone with the NSP OTR app and the Aadhaar FaceRD app | For face authentication | A CSC can do biometric authentication for you |\n\nKeep the documents your scheme asks for ready too, for example an income certificate, a community certificate, mark sheets or a disability certificate. Each scheme's rules are in its \"Specifications\" link on the NSP scheme list.\n\n## How do you get your OTR, step by step?\n\n1. **Start registration.** On scholarships.gov.in, go to the student section and choose One Time Registration. Enter your details and Aadhaar (or EID, or your parent's Aadhaar if you are a minor).\n2. **Note your Reference number.** NSP sends a Reference number to your registered mobile. You need it for the next step. If you forget it, use \"Forgot Reference no\" with the Aadhaar you used.\n3. **Install two apps from the Google Play Store:** the Aadhaar FaceRD app and the NSP OTR app.\n4. **Do face authentication.** In the NSP OTR app, choose \"eKYC with FaceAuth\". Sit in good light and keep your face in the frame. When it succeeds, your OTR number is sent to your phone.\n5. **Set your password.** If you do not receive it, use \"Forgot Password\" under OTR login on the NSP student page.\n\n## How do you apply for a scholarship?\n\n1. **Check which schemes you qualify for.** Open the scheme list on NSP, choose the ministry or department, and read the \"Specifications\" (rules) and \"FAQ\" for each scheme.\n2. **Check the closing date.** For 2026-27 the portal opened on 1 June 2026. Many schemes close on 30 September 2026 or 31 October 2026. Check the exact date for your scheme on the scheme list.\n3. **Log in with your OTR** and fill the application. Upload clear copies of the documents asked for.\n4. **Submit and save your application ID.** You can always see all your applications and their status by logging in with your OTR.\n\nFrom 2026-27, NSP allows one merit-based scholarship and one or more welfare-based scholarships per student, if you are eligible for each.\n\n**If you have a disability:** NSP says you must first log in to the UDID portal and give consent to share your UDID details, and only then submit your NSP application. Otherwise you will not be able to submit.\n\n## What happens after you apply?\n\nYour application is checked in stages. First your **school or college** verifies it. Then a district, state or ministry nodal officer verifies it. Each stage has its own closing date on the scheme list, so ask your institution to verify in time.\n\nScholarships are paid directly into your bank account by **Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)**. For many schemes you can track payment on the Public Financial Management System (PFMS) portal using \"Know Your Payment\".\n\n## What are the most common mistakes?\n\n- **Applying on a fake website.** Only use scholarships.gov.in.\n- **Registering with an Aadhaar Enrolment ID and forgetting to update it.** You must add your Aadhaar within one month, or your OTR may be suspended.\n- **Not updating after turning 18.** If you used a parent's Aadhaar, update to your own Aadhaar and redo face authentication after you turn 18.\n- **Locked biometrics.** If face authentication fails, check that your Aadhaar biometrics are unlocked.\n- **Bank account not seeded with Aadhaar.** In your OTR profile, use \"Aadhaar Seeding, Check it now\".\n- **Waiting until the last day.** Your institution also needs time to verify.\n- **Paying an agent.** Nobody needs to pay more than the Rs 30 CSC charge to apply. SEEDbridge volunteers help for free.\n\n## Need help?\n\nSEEDbridge volunteers can guide you through the NSP form for free. Never share your Aadhaar number, OTR password, OTPs or bank details with anyone who contacts you about a scholarship.", "date_published": "2026-09-29T00:00:00.000Z", "date_modified": "2026-09-29T00:00:00.000Z", "language": "en-IN", "tags": [ "Scholarships", "national-scholarship-portal", "nsp", "otr", "central-scholarships" ], "_seedbridge": { "category": "scholarships", "audience": [ "school-student", "college-student", "parent" ], "stage": [ "class-9-10", "class-11-12", "undergraduate", "postgraduate" ], "type": "how-to", "last_verified": "2026-09-29", "sources": [ { "title": "National Scholarship Portal: home page and announcements (Academic Year 2026-27)", "url": "https://scholarships.gov.in/" }, { "title": "National Scholarship Portal: all schemes and closing dates", "url": "https://scholarships.gov.in/All-Scholarships" }, { "title": "NSP: Frequently Asked Questions on One-Time Registration (version 1.4)", "url": "https://scholarships.gov.in/public/FAQ/OTR%20FAQ%20v1.4.pdf" }, { "title": "NSP: Student FAQs page", "url": "https://scholarships.gov.in/studentFAQs" }, { "title": "PM-USP CSSS guidelines (payment tracking on PFMS)", "url": "https://scholarships.gov.in/public/schemeGuidelines/CSSS_GUIDLINES_07022024_updated.pdf" } ] } } ] }