Introduction The Odisha Banishree Scholarship is a welfare scholarship scheme introduced by the Government of Odisha through the Social Security & Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (SSEPD) Department. The scheme aims to provide financial support to students with disabilities so they can continue their education without financial difficulties. It covers students studying in schools, colleges, universities, technical institutions, vocational training centres, and other recognised educational institutions. Under the scheme, eligible students receive monthly scholarship assistance based on their level of education. Additional support in the form of Reader's Allowance for visually impaired students and Transport Allowance for eligible students with severe orthopaedic disabilities is also provided. The scholarship amount is transferred directly to the beneficiary's bank account through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. Interested students who meet the prescribed eligibility conditions can apply online through the Odisha State Scholarship Portal. Benefits Monthly scholarship assistance from ₹400 to ₹700 based on the level of education. Support available for school, college, technical, vocational, professional, and higher education courses. Reader's Allowance for visually impaired students: ₹200 per month (Primary Level) ₹300 per month (Middle & High School) ₹400 per month (Higher Education) Transport Allowance of ₹200 per month for students with 75% or more orthopaedic disability. Scholarship amount transferred directly to Aadhaar-linked bank accounts through DBT. Can be availed along with eligible State or Central Government scholarships, subject to scheme conditions. Continues from the month of admission till the end of the academic session. Eligibility Applicant must be a permanent resident of Odisha. Must be a student enrolled in a recognised educational institution. Must possess a valid UDID (Unique Disability Identity) Card. Applicable to all disability categories covered under the UDID system. Neither parent should be an income-tax payer. Must be studying in an eligible class, course, or training programme. Minimum 75% attendance is required for continuation of benefits. Students pursuing studies outside Odisha are eligible only if the course is unavailable in the state and not covered under any Government of India scholarship. Documents Aadhaar Card Valid UDID Card/Disability Certificate Recent Passport Size Photograph Previous Examination Marksheet Bank Passbook Copy Bank Account Number and IFSC Code Process to Apply Visit the Odisha State Scholarship Portal. Register/Login using the required credentials. Select the Odisha Banishree Scholarship scheme. Fill in personal, academic, disability, and bank account details. Upload the required documents. Review the application form and submit it online. Institution authorities will verify enrolment and attendance details. After approval, the scholarship amount will be credited through DBT. Important Links and Contact Odisha State Scholarship Portal SSEPD Odisha Portal Scholarship Portal Contact Details FAQs Q1. What is the Odisha Banishree Scholarship?It is a scholarship scheme for students with disabilities in Odisha to support their educational expenses. Q2. Who can apply for the Banishree Scholarship?Students with a valid UDID Card studying in recognized institutions in Odisha can apply, subject to eligibility conditions. Q3. How much scholarship is provided under the scheme?Eligible students receive between ₹400 and ₹700 per month depending on their education level. Q4. Is a UDID Card mandatory?Yes, a valid UDID Card is required to avail the scholarship. Q5. Can students receiving other scholarships apply for Banishree?Yes, students may receive Banishree benefits along with other scholarships, subject to applicable rules. Q6. How is the scholarship amount paid?The amount is transferred directly to the beneficiary's Aadhaar-seeded bank account through DBT. Q7. What is the last date to apply?For the current application cycle, applications can be submitted up to 30 November 2026.