New Delhi: Kerala and Karnataka have emerged as the leading states in facilitating access to international education loans for students from minority communities in India. Between 2020 and 2025, Kerala alone recorded a remarkable 9,982 beneficiaries under the Padho Pardesh scheme, with fund disbursements exceeding ₹8.8 crore.
The Padho Pardesh scheme, launched by the Government of India, aims to support meritorious students from economically weaker sections of minority communities by providing interest subsidies on education loans for overseas studies. Kerala’s high participation underscores its strong educational infrastructure and the community’s proactive pursuit of global academic opportunities.
Karnataka also reported a significant number of beneficiaries, placing it among the top-performing states in promoting international higher education among minority groups.
Officials note that these figures reflect a growing aspiration among students from minority backgrounds to seek world-class education, supported by targeted government schemes and improved access to financial assistance.
