UGC Introduces Aadhaar-Based Payment System for Fellowships and Scholarships: Mandatory Linking Before April 15
Major Reform by University Grants Commission
In a significant move aimed at enhancing transparency and efficiency in scholarship disbursement, the University Grants Commission has introduced the Aadhaar-Based Payment (ABP) system for fellowships and scholarships across India
The decision marks a shift towards a fully digital and direct benefit transfer mechanism, ensuring that financial assistance reaches beneficiaries directly without delays or discrepancies
What is Aadhaar-Based Payment (ABP) System
The Aadhaar-Based Payment system is a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism that allows funds to be credited directly into Aadhaar-linked bank accounts of beneficiaries
Under this system, all fellowship and scholarship payments managed through the Scholarship and Fellowship Management Portal (SFMP) will be processed exclusively via Aadhaar-seeded bank accounts
Mandatory Aadhaar Linking for Students
As per the official notification, all beneficiaries must link their Aadhaar number with their bank accounts to continue receiving scholarships and fellowships
Additionally, Aadhaar details must also be updated and seeded on the SFMP portal to ensure smooth processing of payments without any interruptions
Important Deadlines Announced
The UGC has set strict timelines for completing the Aadhaar linking and verification process for all stakeholders
The deadline for Aadhaar seeding on the SFMP portal is April 15, 2026, while nodal officers have been instructed to complete verification and approval by April 20, 2026
Role of Institutions and Nodal Officers
Universities and institutions play a crucial role in implementing this transition to the ABP system effectively
Nodal officers have been directed to proactively verify Aadhaar details and ensure that all student records are updated accurately to avoid delays in scholarship disbursement
Impact on Students and Research Scholars
This reform is expected to benefit lakhs of students and research scholars by ensuring timely and transparent payments
By eliminating intermediaries and manual errors, the ABP system will significantly reduce delays and ensure that funds reach the intended beneficiaries without leakage
Ensuring Transparency and Efficiency
The move aligns with the government’s broader push for digital governance and financial inclusion
With Aadhaar integration, authorities can track disbursement more effectively, minimize duplication, and maintain accountability in scholarship distribution
What Happens if Aadhaar is Not Linked
Students who fail to link their Aadhaar with their bank accounts or update details on the SFMP portal may face delays or suspension of their scholarship payments
Therefore, candidates are strongly advised to complete the process well before the deadline to avoid any inconvenience
Step-by-Step Guide for Students
Students should first ensure that their Aadhaar is linked with their bank account through their respective bank branch or online services
After linking, they must log in to the SFMP portal and update or verify their Aadhaar details to complete the process successfully
Government’s Vision Behind the Reform
The introduction of the Aadhaar-Based Payment system reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening Direct Benefit Transfer mechanisms
This initiative is expected to streamline scholarship distribution nationwide while promoting a more accountable and technology-driven education ecosystem
UGC Aadhaar Based Payment System 2026
UGC makes Aadhaar linking mandatory for scholarship payments via ABP system check deadline April 15 2026 and full details
UGC scholarship update 2026 Aadhaar linking scholarship ABP system DBT scholarship India UGC fellowship payment update SFMP portal
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