Vidyarthi Harithasena Scholarship 2026-27 Application, Eligibility

The Government of Kerala, through a joint initiative between the Local Self Government Department (LSGD) and the General Education Department, has introduced the Vidyarthi Harithasena Scholarship – Ecosense (വിദ്യാർത്ഥി ഹരിതസേന സ്കോളർഷിപ്പ് – ഇക്കോസെൻസ്) for the academic year 2026-27. This innovative scheme is designed to foster a scientific attitude toward waste management and environmental protection among the state’s school students.

വിദ്യാർത്ഥി ഹരിതസേന സ്കോളർഷിപ്പ് – ഇക്കോസെൻസ് Key Highlights

Eligibility Criteria

The scholarship is specifically open to students studying in Government, Aided, and recognized Unaided schools following the Kerala State Syllabus. The eligible academic categories include:

• Upper Primary (UP) Section: Students studying in Classes 6 and 7.

• High School (HS) Section: Students studying in Classes 8 and 9.

• Higher Secondary / Vocational Higher Secondary (HSS/VHSS): First-year (Class 11) students.

Quota Allocation per Local Body:

• Grama Panchayats are required to select a minimum of 50 students.

• Municipalities must select at least 75 students.

• Corporations are required to select a minimum of 100 students.

• The total scholarship distribution ratio is mandated at 40% for the UP section, 30% for High School, and 30% for HSS/VHSS.

• A minimum of two students from each participating school is guaranteed to receive the scholarship.

Primary Objectives of the Scheme

The Ecosense scholarship aims to create environmental awareness and implement sustainable solutions through active student participation. The core objectives include:

• Developing an interest in responsible consumption and scientific waste management among the youth.
• Encouraging students to find innovative solutions to local waste management challenges.
• Instilling a deep sense of commitment towards sustainable development and eco-friendly practices.
• Fostering essential green skills within the student community to prepare them for a sustainable future.

Selection Process and Activities

Students are selected at the school level under the direct supervision of the General Education Department. Each participating school will appoint dedicated Teacher Coordinators to evaluate and guide the students’ activities.

Selection is largely based on practical, hands-on activities that are integrated with the Work Integrated Education Activity Books prepared by SCERT. The designated tasks for students include:

• Implementing the Green Protocol: Avoiding disposable items like plastics and thermocol, and drastically reducing waste generation at home and school.

• Waste Segregation: Creating categorized waste bins from reusable materials and practicing strict waste segregation.

• Organic Composting: Setting up source-level organic waste management systems at home to convert food waste into usable fertilizer.

• Waste Mapping: Identifying and mapping local waste dumping or burning spots in and around the school premises.

• Community Surveys: Visiting nearby homes and establishments, often in collaboration with the local Haritha Karma Sena, to analyze and report on local waste management practices.

Important Dates 

• Student Registration Deadline: August 10, 2026.
• Orientation and Commencement of Activities: August 11, 2026.
• Deadline for Completion of Activities: October 30, 2026.
• Submission of Selected Students’ Details to LSGD: November 2, 2026.
• Preparation for Suchitwa Padhanotsavam: November 10, 2026.
• Harithasabha & Scholarship Distribution Event: November 14, 2026.

Students who successfully complete their tasks will have the opportunity to present their findings at the Suchitwa Padhanotsavam organized by their respective local bodies. Furthermore, schools demonstrating outstanding performance in these green initiatives will be honored with special awards.

Important Links