Economically Backward Class (EBC)

The term Economically Backward Class was coined for the first time in 2014-15 and was first adopted in Dr Ambedkar Post-matric Scholarship for EBC students. Indian citizens belonging to the General category with an income equal to or less than Rs. 1 lakh per annum are classified as Economically Backwards(EBC).

Commission for EBCs

There is a Commission for Economically Backward Classes under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. Its objective is:

• To collect the views of all the state governments/UTs on the subject of EBC
• Develop criteria to identify EBC.
• Suggest methods for the welfare of the economically backwards classes
• Suggest the required legal, constitutional and administrative changes to uplift the people belonging to the EBC category.

Schemes for the Upliftment of EBCs

Dr Ambedkar Post-Matric Scholarship for EBC Students

This scheme is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) which is being implemented by the State Government and Union Territories. This scheme was launched with an aim of providing financial assistance to the students belonging to the EBC studying at post matriculation or post-secondary level.

Dr Ambedkar Scheme of Interest Subsidy on Educational Loan for Overseas Studies for EBCs

This scheme has been launched by the Central Government to recognise and award excelling EBC students and provide them with an opportunity to pursue their higher education from an institution located outside India. The Eligibility criteria are that the student applying through this scheme should have the family income of less than Rs 1 Lakh and should have secured admission at Masters, M.Phil or PhD level.