Introduction:
Education is a powerful pathway out of poverty. Recognising this, the Karnataka Labour Welfare Board (KLWB) has instituted an Educational Assistance Scheme — also called Kalike Bhagya — to uplift the children of organised sector workers by easing the financial burden of schooling and higher studies. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how this scheme works, eligibility requirements, benefit amounts, application process, and its broader social impact.
1. Purpose and Background
The scheme is part of a broader welfare mandate under the Karnataka Labour Welfare Act. It aims to provide financial relief specifically to children of workers whose parents contribute regularly to the Labour Welfare Fund, thereby promoting educational attainment across vulnerable households. Employers contribute to this fund, making the benefits possible.
2. Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the assistance:
- Parent Employment & Income: The parent must be an organised sector worker (e.g., factory or shop employee) and contribute to the KLWB. Their monthly salary must be ₹35,000 or less.
- Academic Performance: The student must have scored at least 50% marks for general category, and 45% for SC/ST or PwD categories in their previous exam.
- Educational Levels Covered: Assistance is available for studies spanning High School, PUC, ITI, Diploma, Graduation, Post-Graduation, and professional courses such as Engineering and Medical.
- Family Limit: A maximum of two children per family can avail of the scheme’s benefits.
3. How Much Support Is Offered
The assistance amount varies depending on the level of course pursued. As per updated welfare norms:
- High School: Approx. ₹6,000
- PUC / ITI / Diploma / Technical Courses: Approx. ₹6,000 (some sources mention ₹4,000 but recent data reflects ₹6,000)
- Graduation: ₹5,000–₹6,000
- Post-Graduation: ₹6,000
- Engineering / Medical: Up to ₹11,000
Another authoritative source states that educational assistance ranges from ₹6,000 for high school to ₹11,000 for Engineering/Medical courses. Though amounts may vary depending on specific course categories or updates, it’s clear that higher professional courses attract more aid.
4. Application Process
How to Apply:
- Visit the official KLWB portal
- Register or log in to create your account and access the application form.
- Fill in required details regarding student’s previous academic record, parent’s employment/income proof, proof of KLWB contribution, identity documents (Aadhaar), and bank account details.
- Upload the necessary documents digitally (mark sheets, income certificate, Aadhaar, bank passbook, etc.).
- Submit the application before the deadline—31st October 2025.
- After submission, applicants can track the status online through the portal. Once approved, the assistance amount is credited directly to the student’s bank account.
For help, applicants can contact KLWB helpline numbers—including 8277291175, 8277120505, 080-23475188, and others.Board HR
5. Social Impact and Importance
This scheme levels the playing field—especially for children of workers in low-income, organised sectors—by reducing financial barriers to education. It encourages families to invest in their children’s futures, thus contributing to social mobility. Notably, in July 2025, the government also announced the establishment of residential schools for children of construction workers through smart cards and welfare support.
Conclusion
The Karnataka Labour Card Educational Assistance Scheme is a vital welfare measure, offering financial support to children of organised sector workers, enabling them to pursue education from high school through professional courses. With a transparent, fully digital application process, well-defined eligibility, and direct benefit transfer, this initiative promotes educational inclusivity and perseverance among economically vulnerable families. If you’d like, I can help guide you through preparing documents or navigating the application portal.