The Muzrai Department’s scholarship scheme, started in 2023, has distributed ₹38.38 lakh to 254 students so far. Most beneficiaries—230 students—are children of priests serving in Muzrai temples. The rest are children of temple staff. Five children of priests have been given ₹1 lakh each to study abroad. Transport and Muzrai Minister Ramalinga Reddy told The Hindu, “This distribution reflects the high number of applications received from families of priests, many of whom face financial hardships due to modest incomes tied to traditional temple service.” He added, “The scholarship scheme, implemented through a Government Order dated October 27, 2023, offers financial assistance for a wide range of courses — from PU to medical, engineering, postgraduate studies, and even foreign education. The initiative aims to support educational advancement among families working in Muzrai temples, who previously had no access to any dedicated student incentive programme.” The biggest highlight is the ₹1 lakh grant for five students pursuing higher education abroad, all from priest families, said Mr. Reddy. Besides scholarships, the department has also launched a posthumous financial assistance scheme for families of deceased priests and staff. Under this, ₹2 lakh is provided to dependent families. So far, ₹56 lakh has been paid to 28 bereaved families. Officials confirmed applications for scholarships and grants will stay open until December 31, 2025. Beneficiaries can continue to apply and use the scheme’s benefits.