USTM launches 500 special scholarships for Northeast students, prioritizing inclusion and merit

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaMay 3, 2025

The University of Science & Technology Meghalaya (USTM) has announced a major scholarship initiative for 500 students from Northeast India for the 2025–26 academic session, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive and accessible higher education.

The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Guwahati Press Club on Saturday. Key university officials including Dr Rani Pathak Das (Public Relations Officer), Dr. Rashmi Baruah (Associate Professor), Prof. Gayatree Goswamee (Dean, PQSE), Debasish Saha (Director, Operations & IQAC), and Nurmahmud Ali (Director, Admissions & Training and Placement Division) shared details of the scheme.

Prof. Gayatree Goswamee said, “Under this new scholarship scheme, USTM will provide 500 Special Scholarships under various categories to deserving students from Northeast India who seek admission in the upcoming academic session 2025-26. The categories include: Merit Based (250 scholarships), Sports Achievements (50 scholarships), Cultural Achievements (50 scholarships), Children of Tea Garden Workers (50 scholarships), Inhabitants from Majuli & Dhemaji (20 scholarships), Freedom fighter / Martyr’s family (20 scholarships), Violence and conflict affected children (20 scholarships), Children of Media fraternity (20 scholarships) and Orphan / Single Girl child (20 scholarships)”. 

. Debasish Saha spoke about the USTM’s National and International Rankings, its accreditations, and quality research and development.”

Nurmahmud Ali announced that 100% scholarships will be granted to state board toppers from Northeast states. Students securing 85% and above are eligible for a 30% scholarship, while those from the Economically Weaker Section (EWS) can get up to 50% under a merit-cum-means model.

There are also scholarships for students who score over 60 percentile in national exams such as JEE (Mains), GATE, CAT, MAT, XAT, excel in sports or cultural events recognized by bodies such as SAI, IOA, FISU, SGFI, or the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, are physically challenged (eligible for 30% scholarship), come from violence-affected areas (eligible for 15% special scholarship) and commitment to Inclusion and Excellence.

Dr Rani Pathak Das highlighted USTM’s record in inclusive education: “Today, over 57% of our students are girls and 80% come from rural backgrounds. Nearly 20% receive free or subsidized education, reflecting our commitment to equal opportunity.”

Dr. Rashmi Baruah noted USTM’s diversity, with students from over 30 communities and tribes across the Northeast.

Debasish Saha also spoke about USTM’s national and international rankings, accreditations, and focus on quality research.

Registration is now open for various diploma, undergraduate, and postgraduate programmes. Candidates can apply online at https://apply.ustm.ac.in by submitting the prescribed application fee.

Through this initiative, USTM aims to reward academic and extracurricular excellence while empowering underserved communities across Northeast India.