Education is one of the strongest tools for empowerment, especially for students with visual impairments who often face additional challenges in accessing quality learning opportunities. While ability and perseverance are universal, approach to possessions is not—this is a place where scholarships enhance essential. They help bridge the economic gap and guarantee that blind graduates can devote effort to something for their academic growth without obstacles.

In India, many administration bulks, private organizations, and NGOs work energetically to support blind and optically injured graduates. These scholarships not only offer financial aid but to help build an atmosphere of assurance, liberty, and inclusivity inside the educational structure.

This site investigates why scholarships for blind students matter, highlights the top 10 scholarships vacant in India, showcases the function of NGOs, and answers frequently asked questions that students and persons frequently have.

Why Scholarships for Blind Students Are So Important?

Blind and visually impaired students often experience unique challenges that their sighted peers may not encounter. These include accessibility issues, the need for assistive devices, mobility support, and higher costs of learning materials such as Braille books or screen-reading technology. In many cases, families struggle to afford these additional expenses.

Scholarships help reduce this financial burden significantly. They ensure that visually impaired students do not have to compromise on the quality of their education or career goals. Scholarships also encourage more students to pursue higher studies, professional courses, and vocational training without fear of financial strain.

Another important aspect is confidence. When students receive recognition through scholarships, it validates their abilities and motivates them to aim higher. This kind of encouragement plays a crucial role in enabling blind students to integrate into mainstream education and build successful futures. Scholarships ultimately open doors to equal opportunities, which is essential for creating a more inclusive and empowered society.

Top 10 Scholarships for Blind Students in India

India offers a wide range of scholarships specifically designed to support visually impaired learners. Below are ten of the most impactful scholarships, each explained in detail as per your outline 

1. National Scholarship for Persons with Disabilities (NSPD)

This scholarship is run by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) and is one of the most sought-after schemes for blind students. It covers academic fees, maintenance allowances, and disability-related expenses. Students from Class 9 to postgraduate levels can apply based on their disability certificate and income criteria.

The NSPD scholarship aims to create equal opportunities and empower students by supporting them throughout their academic journey. Its wide coverage and national recognition make it a strong pillar of educational support.

2. Saksham Scholarship by AICTE

The Saksham Scholarship is offered to differently-abled students pursuing technical or professional degrees such as engineering or diploma programs. It is especially valuable for visually impaired students aspiring to enter STEM fields.

The scholarship covers tuition fees and provides an annual allowance for books, software, and assistive technology. The goal is to ensure that students with disabilities can confidently pursue high-skilled careers.

3. Indian Oil Educational Scholarship Scheme (IOCL)

IOCL offers scholarships for students from economically challenged backgrounds—including visually impaired students—pursuing higher education. Students enrolled in engineering, medical, or diploma courses are particularly encouraged to apply.

Its transparent selection process and financial coverage help blind students access quality education in prestigious institutions across India.

4. NHFDC Scholarships (National Handicapped Finance and Development Corporation)

NHFDC provides multiple scholarship schemes for students with disabilities, including visually impaired learners. These scholarships support education from school to postgraduate levels.

NHFDC also assists in covering the cost of aids, appliances, and special learning tools required by blind students, promoting inclusive education opportunities.

5. ONGC Scholarship Scheme

The ONGC Scholarship is offered to meritorious students with disabilities pursuing professional courses such as engineering, medicine, MBA, and geology. Visually impaired students are eligible and often benefit greatly due to the scholarship’s generous coverage.

The scheme emphasizes merit and aims to support students from marginalized groups in achieving academic excellence.

6. National Scholarship for Persons with Visual Disability

Specifically dedicated to blind and low-vision students, this scholarship ensures that visually impaired learners can continue their studies without financial stress. It covers tuition fees, accommodation, and special assistive needs like Braille materials and audio learning devices.

This scholarship plays a vital role in uplifting visual disability students at all levels of education.

7. IERT Scholarship for Blind Students

The Institute of Engineering and Rural Technology (IERT) provides financial assistance to visually impaired students enrolled in technical and vocational programs. The scholarship is designed to encourage blind students to enter skill-based careers.

It removes financial obstacles and supports students with aids such as reading devices, mobility tools, and exam preparation resources.

8. All India Confederation of the Blind (AICB) Scholarships

AICB is one of India’s leading organizations working for blind individuals. Their scholarships benefit school and college-level students who show academic promise. The organization also provides mentorship and access to Braille libraries.

AICB scholarships are particularly helpful for students from underprivileged backgrounds seeking consistent academic support.

9. Javed Abidi Fellowship and Scholarships

Offered in memory of disability rights leader Javed Abidi, this scholarship supports visually impaired students passionate about public policy, advocacy, and social change. It is ideal for students pursuing social sciences, law, or development studies.

It also includes mentorship sessions and opportunities to participate in disability-rights initiatives.

10. Sakal India Foundation Scholarship

Sakal India Foundation supports students with disabilities—including visually impaired learners—by providing financial assistance as well as career guidance. The foundation focuses on nurturing talent and helping students pursue higher studies in India and abroad.

Their mentoring programs, counseling, and personal guidance make this scholarship stand out as a holistic support system.

Role of NGOs and Foundations in Supporting Blind Students

NGOs and charitable foundations play a transformative role in helping visually impaired students succeed academically and personally. They bridge the gap where government schemes may fall short and provide tailored services beyond just financial aid.

Most of these organizations also run training programs, provide assistive technologies, and create a safe learning environment for blind students. Their involvement ensures that students get the kind of support that goes beyond scholarships—support that prepares them for real-world challenges.

Key Roles of NGOs and Foundations

• Funding scholarships and financial aid
• Providing Braille books, digital tools, screen-reader software
• Organizing skill-building and training workshops
• Offering mentorship and career guidance
• Conducting advocacy for accessible education policies
• Creating awareness about disability rights
• Supporting placement and employment initiatives

These contributions collectively empower blind students to learn, grow, and thrive.

Related Blog: Top 10 NGOs for Blind in India Making a Difference

FAQs About Scholarships for Blind Students in India

Below are detailed answers based on your provided outline 

Q1. Who is eligible for the NSPD Scholarship?

Students with a disability of 40% or above, including blindness or low vision, are eligible for the NSPD Scholarship. They must be enrolled in recognized schools, colleges, or universities, and the family’s annual income must fall within the program’s prescribed limit.

Additionally, students must maintain satisfactory attendance and academic performance to continue receiving the scholarship.

Q2. How can NGOs help blind students with education?

NGOs support blind students by offering scholarships, training, assistive learning devices, and accessible study materials. Many organizations also run workshops that teach life skills, mobility training, and computer literacy using screen-reader software.

Their community-based programs and mentorship initiatives provide emotional and academic support, helping students stay motivated and confident.

Q3. How does Sakal India Foundation support blind or disabled students?

Sakal India Foundation provides financial assistance, counseling, and career guidance to blind and disabled students. Their mentoring programs help students choose the right career path, prepare for competitive exams, and develop life skills.

They also support higher studies and professional courses, ensuring that students receive both academic and emotional support.

Q4. Where can I find updates about new scholarships?

Students can stay updated through platforms such as the National Scholarship Portal (NSP), official government websites, NGO portals, college notice boards, and trusted educational blogs. Many disability-rights organizations also share regular updates on social media.

Subscribing to newsletters from foundations and advocacy groups is another effective way to stay informed.

Q5. Can visually impaired students apply for Saksham or ONGC scholarships?

Yes, visually impaired students can apply for both Saksham and ONGC scholarships as long as they meet the academic and disability eligibility criteria. These scholarships are specifically designed to support students with disabilities pursuing professional or higher education.

They encourage inclusion in fields such as engineering, medicine, management, and other technical disciplines.

Conclusion

Scholarships for blind students in India are more than just financial assistance—they are instruments of empowerment, inclusion, and equal opportunity. With government programs, NGOs, and private organizations working together, visually impaired students today have access to better resources than ever before.

By spreading awareness about these scholarships and supporting organizations that champion accessibility, we can help blind students build brighter, more independent futures.