Evaluation of ARIVU Educational Loan Scheme Implemented by D Devaraj Urs Backward Classes Development Corporation in Karnataka (2011-12 to 2017-18)

ARIVU, a student loan scheme as an alternative source of financing higher education for credit constrained students from underprivileged sections, was launched. The scheme aims at increasing access, reducing dropout and enhancing employability of the students belonging to backward communities and is implemented through the D Devaraj Urs Backward Class Development Corporation.

• Identify constraints and glitches experienced by ARIVU loan student beneficiaries for managing other expenses during their study period.
• Examine the repayment status of ARIVU loan by the beneficiaries and about other alternative loans if they have availed for higher education purpose.
• Critically analyse the criteria and mechanism adopted for selection of student beneficiaries across different strata [caste categories, households, courses, boys and girls] within 
• Study the effectiveness of ARIVU scheme's implementation (tracking supply- distribution chain from the origin till the end beneficiary).

The study reveals that the programme has covered 38.3 per cent of female students and 61.7 per cent of male students during the period. District-wise, Bangalore Urban, Bidar, Mysore and Gulbarga district reveals better ratio of course completion thereby revealing positive impact of the scheme. Interestingly, Mysore division presents a higher proportion of course completion ratio.