The Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP) General Headquarters has officially adopted the Mizo Zirlai Pawl – Students’ Aid Fund Guidelines 2025, following its approval at Executive Committee sitting No. 647 under Resolution No. 8. 

The newly introduced policy aims to strengthen financial support for economically disadvantaged Mizo students and ensure that no learner is forced to abandon studies due to financial hardship.

The Students’ Aid Fund (MZP-SAF) seeks to promote equity and inclusion, with a particular focus on students from marginalized, low-income, rural, and underrepresented communities. Assistance will be provided through the Students’ Aid Fund Management Committee (SAFMC), constituted by the MZP GHQ Executive Committee.

Comprehensive Support for Students

Under the new guidelines, the Fund will cover a wide range of educational expenses, including tuition, admission, examination fees, hostel charges, textbooks, stationery, and essential educational materials. Support may also be extended during verified medical emergencies. Aid will be disbursed either as grants or interest-free loans, with beneficiaries required to sign undertakings and repayment agreements where applicable. All assistance must be used strictly for educational purposes.

Multiple Funding Sources and Strict Transparency Measures

The Fund will be financed through MZP fundraising drives, voluntary contributions from members and alumni, donations from institutions and CSR partners, and special grants from government bodies. A dedicated bank account—jointly operated by the MZP GHQ President and Treasurer—will manage all financial transactions, with annual audits ensuring full transparency. The guidelines explicitly prohibit commissions for fundraising and bar donors from influencing beneficiary selection.

Robust Committee Structure

The SAFMC will be chaired by the MZP GHQ President, with the General Secretary and Treasurer serving as Secretary and Treasurer respectively. Other members will include all MZP GHQ office-bearers, two nominated educationists or eminent citizens, student representatives, a Joint Hnampual representative, and a legal advisor. The committee will convene quarterly or as required, with a minimum quorum of five members.

Eligibility and Application Process

Any Mizo student facing genuine financial challenges may apply. Priority will be given to those from rural or remote areas, Scheduled Tribes, differently-abled students, first-generation learners, and those not receiving similar full scholarships. The selection process will consider financial need, authenticity of documents, academic performance, and attendance. Interviews or home visits may be carried out when necessary.

Disbursement and Accountability

Aid amounts will depend on individual need and the Fund's annual capacity. Payments may be issued directly to students or institutions, with provisions for multi-year support. Misuse of funds or submission of false documents will lead to repayment obligations, disqualification, and possible legal action. The guidelines also empower the Committee to withdraw aid in cases of misconduct or major financial discrepancies.

Policy Review and Enforcement

The MZP Executive Committee retains the authority to amend the guidelines, with a mandatory review scheduled every two years. The 2025 guidelines come into immediate effect and replace all previous student aid schemes under MZP.

The adoption of the MZP-SAF Guidelines 2025 marks a significant step toward improving educational access and ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder the academic aspirations of Mizo students.