Annal Gandhi Memorial Award supports bright students from the Hindu Adi Dravidar community by providing financial support to continue higher education after securing the first rank in the plus 2 public examinations within their district. Every year the Tamil Nadu government selects one boy and one girl from this community in every district for this award.
Launched on May 7, 2012 by the Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare Department, Tamil Nadu, Annal Gandhi Memorial Award is a state-level scheme that encourages academic success among Adi Dravidar students. As of August 2026, the scheme details remain listed on the official Tamil Nadu government portal, and students keep getting the award through their educational institutions.
Annal Gandhi Memorial Award - Introduction
The award is based on the plus 2 (12th standard) public examinations conducted by the Directorate of Government Examinations, Tamil Nadu. The boy and the girl who secure the first rank among Hindu Adi Dravidar students in their district are picked for the award, provided they continue their studies after school.
There is no income limit for applicants. Students who continue their education for six years receive the award amount in yearly instalments, which helps them manage their study costs. More details can be collected from schools, colleges, and the District Adi Dravidar Welfare Office.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Annal Gandhi Memorial Award |
| Level | State |
| Launched On | May 7, 2012 |
| Nodal Department | Adi Dravidar and Tribal Welfare Department |
| Beneficiary State | Tamil Nadu |
| Target Beneficiaries | Hindu Adi Dravidar students |
| Benefit Type | Cash award |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Application Mode | Offline through educational institution |
Benefits
Annal Gandhi Memorial Award gives cash support to the selected students for six years. The amount is paid in instalments to help with the student's study expenses:
| Duration | Financial Amount |
|---|---|
| First Year | ₹2,000 |
| Next Five Years | ₹1,500 per annum |
Eligibility
To qualify for this award, the student should meet these conditions:
- Resident of Tamil Nadu and currently a student.
- Belongs to the SC/ST (Hindu Adi Dravidar) community.
- Secured the first rank in the plus 2 public examinations within their specific district.
- Continues studies after the 12th standard. There is no income limit.
Application Process
Annal Gandhi Memorial Award application is an offline process. Students apply through the educational institution where they studied:
STEP 1 - Collect the official application form from the educational institution.
STEP 2 - Fill in all required details accurately. Attach a recent passport-sized photograph and include self-attested copies of all required documents.
STEP 3 - Submit the completed application form directly to the educational institution along with the mark sheet and community certificate.
STEP 4 - Ask for a receipt as proof of submission, which should mention the date and a serial number, and keep it safe for future reference.
Documents
Keep the following documents ready for the application:
- Proof of identity such as Aadhaar card.
- Official community certificate.
- Plus 2 public examination mark sheet.
- Personal bank account details for the award amount transfer.
References
Official scheme details on Tamil Nadu government portal
FAQ's
What is Annal Gandhi Memorial Award?
Annal Gandhi Memorial Award is a financial support program for SC/ST students from the Hindu Adi Dravidar community who secure the first rank in their district in the plus 2 public examinations.
Who is eligible for the award?
The award is given to one boy and one girl from the Hindu Adi Dravidar community who secure the first rank in their district during the plus 2 public examinations.
How much financial support is provided?
Students receive ₹2,000 in the first year, followed by ₹1,500 per year for the next five years.
How long is the award valid for?
The total support period is six years.
Is there any income limit to apply for this award?
No, there is no income limit set for applicants under this scheme.
Can students from other communities apply for this award?
No, the award is only for students belonging to the Hindu Adi Dravidar community.
Is the award applicable for all students across the state?
Yes, one boy and one girl from every district can get it, provided they meet the rank requirements.
What documents are required to apply?
Candidates need the plus 2 public examination mark sheet and a valid community certificate, along with identity proof.
What is the application process?
Students apply through their educational institution by submitting the required paperwork.
When was this scheme started?
Annal Gandhi Memorial Award was introduced on May 7, 2012.
Where can I get more information?
Contact the school or college administration or the local Adi Dravidar welfare office for more guidance.