Kerala’s EcoSense Scholarships
Why in News?
Kerala’s EcoSense Scholarships (Vidyarthi Haritha Sena) were highlighted after the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs recognised the programme under Swachh Bharat Mission–Urban 2.0 (SBM‑U 2.0).
Objective & Collaboration
- Joint Venture: It is a joint initiative rolled out by Kerala's Local Self-Governments (LSG) Department and the General Education Department.
- Aim: The scholarship aims to nurture ecologically sensible citizens, develop green skills, encourage scientific waste management, and inspire students to become ambassadors of clean surroundings.
- Broader Framework: The program operates against the backdrop of the state government’s "Malinyamuktham Navakeralam" (Waste-Free New Kerala) campaign.
Eligibility & Coverage
- Target Classes: Students of Classes VI, VII, VIII, IX, and XI are eligible to participate.
- Scale: The government targets honouring approximately 46,000 to 50,000 students across the state.
- Financial Incentive: Selected students receive a cash prize of ₹1,500.
- Recognition: Alongside the money, students are awarded an official citation/certificate recognizing them as green leaders.
- School Level Awards: The program also honours schools that show outstanding institutional performance in waste management (e.g., Best Performing School Award).
Selection Process & Student Activities
Unlike traditional academic scholarships, selection is entirely activity-based:
Unlike traditional academic scholarships, selection is entirely activity-based:
- Phase 1 Activities: Registered students perform basic ecological tasks, including observing green protocols, segregating waste, practicing biocomposting, conducting waste mapping, and creating videos promoting alternative green products.
- Phase 2 Evaluation: Shortlisted candidates at the Panchayat, Municipal, and Corporation levels progress to a second tier of tasks, which includes auditing commercial or residential areas and visiting waste management plants to draft scientific reports.
