AI SummaryVarnam Scheme for Transgender Students Pursuing Distance Education Courses is a support scheme by the Social Justice Department, Government of Kerala. It gives money help to transgender students who are doing degree, diploma or postgraduate courses through distance education, covering registration, tuition, exam fees and study material costs.
As of August 2026 the scheme is still open for eligible transgender students of Kerala. Eligible students can get up to ₹24,000 every year, with support for 2 years for postgraduate courses and 3 years for undergraduate courses.
Varnam Scheme for Transgender Students Pursuing Distance Education Courses - Introduction
Varnam Scheme for Transgender Students Pursuing Distance Education Courses is a dedicated support system launched under the Mazhavillu umbrella scheme by the Social Justice Department, Government of Kerala. Many transgender students cannot study regular college courses because of money problems or social stigma, so they take up degree, diploma or postgraduate courses through distance education. This scheme helps them cover the cost of registration, tuition, exam fees and study materials.
The main aims of this scheme are:
- Helping students who dropped out earlier to finish their studies and earn a steady income, so they can become financially independent.
- Giving students a way to pursue the courses they want through flexible distance learning options.
- Encouraging self-sufficiency and a life of dignity, while opening up new job and study opportunities for transgender people.
Key Information
| Key Label | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Varnam Scheme for Transgender Students Pursuing Distance Education Courses |
| Level | State |
| Beneficiary State | Kerala |
| Nodal Department | Social Justice Department |
| Implementing Agency | District Social Justice Office |
| Benefit Type | Cash |
Benefits
This scheme offers useful money support to help students reach their study goals. The benefits are given below:
| Course Level | Duration of Assistance | Maximum Annual Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Under Graduate (Degree/Diploma) | 3 Years | ₹24,000 |
| Post Graduate (PG) | 2 Years | ₹24,000 |
Eligibility
To qualify for this support, a student should meet the following criteria:
- Should be a native and permanent resident of Kerala.
- Should identify as a transgender person.
- Should be currently enrolled in a degree, diploma or postgraduate course through an open university, distance education or private registration.
Application Process
The application is submitted offline through the District Social Justice Office. The steps are given below.
STEP 1 - Visit the nearest District Social Justice Office to collect the application form, or download the application form here.
STEP 2 - Fill out the form completely and correctly, because incomplete applications are rejected.
STEP 3 - Clearly mention the type of course and the name of the university or study centre where the course is being pursued.
STEP 4 - Attach all the required supporting documents and submit the application package to the concerned District Social Justice Office.
Documents
Keep the following documents ready while applying:
- Aadhaar card as identity proof.
- A recent passport-sized photograph.
- A copy of the Transgender Identity card or a self-declaration statement that the applicant is a transgender person.
- Address proof like Aadhaar card or Voter ID.
- A copy of the previous semester examination hall ticket.
- Certified bills, vouchers or receipts for tuition, registration, exams and study materials, duly verified by the District Social Justice Officer.
- Bank account details for direct benefit transfer.
References
Official Scheme Website | Download Application Form | Official Order Notice
FAQ's
What is Varnam Scheme for Transgender Students Pursuing Distance Education Courses?
It is a scheme by the Kerala Government to give money help to transgender students who are doing distance education, covering tuition, registration, exam fees and study material costs.
What is the objective of this scheme?
The aim is to help students overcome money problems and stigma, so they can finish their degree or PG courses and become financially independent.
Which department oversees this scheme?
The Social Justice Department, Government of Kerala, manages this scheme.
Who is eligible for these benefits?
Any transgender person who is a resident of Kerala and is currently doing a degree, diploma or PG course through distance education or private registration is eligible.
Is this for transgender students only?
Yes, this scheme is made only for transgender students.
Must the applicant be a resident of Kerala?
Yes, residency in Kerala is a required condition for this scheme.
What is the financial support provided?
Eligible students receive a maximum of ₹24,000 every year to help with their study expenses.
Which courses are covered?
Degree, diploma and postgraduate courses from open universities or distance education modes are covered.
How long can I receive the assistance?
Support is given for 2 years for PG courses and 3 years for undergraduate courses.
How do I apply?
You can visit your local District Social Justice Office or download the form from the official website and submit it to the concerned District Office.
Where should the application be submitted?
Submit the completed application and supporting documents to the concerned District Social Justice Office.