The National Scholarship Portal (NSP) has become an essential platform for disbursing scholarships to eligible students across the country. To ensure the security of user profiles and enhance the integrity of the platform, the introduction of biometric authentication in 2023 has brought forth a new era of secure user profile management.
Introduction to NSP Biometric Authentication:
The NSP Biometric Authentication is a cutting-edge security feature that aims to provide an additional layer of protection to the profiles of various stakeholders involved in the scholarship disbursement process. These stakeholders include State Nodal Officers (SNO), District Nodal Officers (DNO), Heads of Institutions/Schools (HoI), Institute Nodal Officers (INO), and students.
Key Features and Functionality:
Mandatory Biometric Authentication:
For all users, performing biometric authentication is mandatory. This requirement extends to State Nodal Officers, District Nodal Officers, Heads of Institutions/Schools, Institute Nodal Officers, and students. This ensures that each user’s identity is accurately verified before accessing or updating their profile information on the NSP.
Profile Details Update:
Users who wish to update their profile details should contact the relevant authorities. The Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA) serves as the point of contact for profile updates for State Nodal Officers. District Nodal Officers, Heads of Institutions/Schools, and Institute Nodal Officers can update their profiles, with the specific approval processes as outlined below.
Changing/Updating User Profiles:
The process for changing or updating user profiles on NSP is governed by a set of protocols:
– State Nodal Officers (SNO): Changes to the SNO profile require notification to the Ministry of Minority Affairs (MoMA).
– District Nodal Officers (DNO): Changes to the DNO profile must be approved by the respective State Nodal Officer (SNO). However, the SNO can only approve changes after completing their own biometric authentication.
– Heads of Institutions/Schools (HoI): Changes to the HoI profile must be approved by the DNO. Similarly, Institute Nodal Officer (INO) profile changes require DNO approval.
– Applicants: Students seeking to update their profiles must go through the validation process in the presence of the Institute Nodal Officer (INO) or Head of Institution (HoI).
No Charges for Biometric Authentication:
Biometric authentication on the NSP is offered free of charge. The Ministry bears all associated costs, ensuring that this security enhancement remains accessible to all users.
Academic Year for Biometric Authentication:
Biometric authentication for the NSP is currently applicable only for the Academic Year 2022-23.
Locations for Biometric Authentication Drive:
The biometric authentication drive takes place at District Head Quarters and respective Institutes. Additionally, Common Service Centers (CSC) also play a crucial role in facilitating the authentication process.
Sequence of Biometric Authentication:
The sequence for biometric authentication involves the following steps:
– State Nodal Officer (SNO) or District Nodal Officer (DNO)
– Head of Institution/School (HoI)
– Institute Nodal Officer (INO)
– Applicant (to be validated in the presence of INO/HoI)
Documents/Details Required:
For successful biometric authentication, users are required to provide the following documents and details:
– NSP Login ID
– Aadhaar Card
– Valid documents as proof of identity for HoI and INO (for DNO profile changes)
Authorized Biometric Authentication Performer:
Common Service Centers (CSCs) are authorized to perform the biometric authentication process.
In conclusion, the introduction of biometric authentication to the National Scholarship Portal in 2023 marks a significant stride towards enhancing security and ensuring the integrity of user profiles. With mandatory authentication for all users and a well-defined process for profile updates, this initiative underscores the commitment to providing a secure and efficient platform for scholarship disbursement. As technology continues to evolve, NSP’s integration of biometric authentication reflects a forward-looking approach to user security and profile management.