When you aim to pursue your education but face financial barriers, scholarships can be a vital stepping stone. They not only ease economic burdens but also empower you to focus on learning and career preparation.
In India, new initiatives like Project Aarohan by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) have been launched specifically to support students like you whose families are toll plaza employees. This project is designed to provide financial assistance, mentorship, and career guidance, making higher education more accessible and achievable.
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What is Project Aarohan?
Project Aarohan is a scholarship initiative launched by NHAI in collaboration with Vertis Infrastructure Trust and implemented by the SMEC Trust’s Bharat Cares. Its goal is to support the educational aspirations of the children of toll plaza employees deployed across national highways in India.
The project focuses on removing financial obstacles and promoting equal access to quality education for students from economically weaker sections (EWS), including girls, first-generation learners, and students from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), Other Backward Classes (OBC), and minority communities.
Timeline and Funding
- First Phase Duration: July 2025 to March 2026
- Fund Allocation: Rs. 1 Crore for the first phase
- Number of Students Targeted: 500 students from Class 11 through final-year graduation plus 50 students aspiring for postgraduate and higher studies.
Scholarship Details
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Amount | Application Deadline | Official Link |
| Project Aarohan | Children of toll plaza employees, Class 11 to final-year graduation, EWS including SC/ST/OBC, girls, minority | Rs. 12,000 annually (FY 2025-26) | To be announced (checked on 27 Aug 2025) | NHAI Press Release |
| Project Aarohan Higher Studies | Children of toll plaza employees pursuing postgraduate and higher studies | Rs. 50,000 each (one-time) | To be announced (checked on 27 Aug 2025) | NHAI Press Release |
Detailed Eligibility Criteria
- Who can apply?
- Children of toll plaza employees working on National Highways.
- Students currently enrolled from Class 11 to the final year of graduation.
- Economically weaker sections including SC/ST/OBC, minority communities, girls, and first-generation learners.
- For postgraduate scholarships: 50 bright students meeting above criteria who wish to pursue higher studies.
- Socio-economic focus: The program emphasizes support for low-income households and marginalized communities associated with toll plaza personnel.
Application Process Explained
- Online Application: You must apply through an official online portal, details of which are provided in the official announcement by NHAI.
- Documents Required:
- Academic records (marksheets, school/college enrollment proof).
- Income proof of the parent or guardian.
- Caste certificate (if applicable).
- Identification proof (Aadhar card or any government ID).
- Selection Process:
- Transparent and systematic selection ensuring inclusion and fairness.
- Evaluation of financial need and academic merit.
- Post-selection Support:
- Continuous mentorship.
- Skill-building workshops.
- Career guidance to prepare you for higher education, employment, or entrepreneurship.
- Renewal:
- Scholarships will have a renewal mechanism based on performance and progress.
Special Conditions and Benefits
- The scholarship is aimed particularly at bridging socio-economic gaps.
- Girls and first-generation learners have special focus for inclusion.
- Alongside financial aid, the program offers structured mentorship and skills training.
- It is focused on building a foundation for you to succeed academically and professionally.
- The program will support students over the long term with monitoring and renewal.
Why This Scholarship Matters to You
If you are a student whose parent works at a toll plaza on national highways, this scholarship:
- Provides financial aid to cover education-related expenses.
- Enables access to skill enhancement workshops and career mentorship.
- Helps overcome socio-economic barriers.
- Supports academic continuity from high school to higher education.
- Encourages girls and marginalized communities to pursue studies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible for Project Aarohan scholarships?
Children of toll plaza employees from Class 11 to graduating students, including economically weaker sections such as SC/ST/OBC, minority groups, girls, and first-generation learners. Postgraduate aspirants from these groups are also eligible for special scholarships.
2. How much is the scholarship amount under Project Aarohan?
You can receive Rs. 12,000 annually if you are studying from Class 11 up to graduation in FY 2025-26. For postgraduate studies, Rs. 50,000 will be awarded to selected bright students.
3. When is the application deadline?
The exact deadline has not been announced officially yet and is currently marked as “To be announced” (checked on 27 August 2025). It is advisable to keep an eye on the official NHAI website and notification portals for updates.
4. What documents are required to apply?
You need academic records, income proof, caste certificate (if applicable), and identity proof. These documents are mandatory for verifying eligibility.
5. Can the scholarship be renewed?
Yes, there is a renewal mechanism based on your academic progress and continued eligibility. The program includes continuous mentorship and progress tracking to support long-term educational goals.
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Summary
Project Aarohan by NHAI is a promising scholarship program specifically aimed at children of toll plaza employees, offering financial aid, mentorship, and skill development. With annual scholarships of Rs. 12,000 for students from Class 11 to graduation and Rs. 50,000 for postgraduate aspirants, this initiative helps you overcome financial difficulties to achieve your educational and career dreams. By applying through the official online portal and fulfilling eligibility and documentation requirements, this scholarship can be a significant stepping stone in your educational journey.
