The Confederation of Alumni for National Law Universities (CAN) Foundation opened up and invites applications for the 7th iteration of their flagship initiative, Project Eklavya.
Project Eklavya aims to facilitate access to higher education for meritorious and underprivileged law students pursuing an undergraduate course in any of the National Law Universities (NLUs) through the provision of an annual scholarship.
In the 2024-25 session, the Foundation granted Scholarships amounting to INR 46 Lakhs approx, 48 Scholars from 18 NLUs across the nation. From 2019 to 2025, the Foundation has awarded approx. INR 3 Crores in scholarships.
The selection process for Project Eklavya follows a rigorous two-tiered approach aimed at identifying the most deserving candidates. In the first tier, renowned legal professionals with at least 10 years of experience at the bar scrutinise the applications received and shortlist the candidates who fulfil the minimum eligibility criteria. After this, a High-Powered Selection Committee assesses the financial requirements and academic merit of the shortlisted candidates, culminating in the scholars’ final selection. This meticulous approach ensures that the most deserving students receive this financial assistance.
The High-Powered Selection Committee for Eklavya 2024 was headed by Hon’ble Ms. Justice Indu Malhotra (Former Judge, Supreme Court of India), as its Chairperson.
The High-Powered Selection Committee for Eklavya 2026 will also be headed by Former Judge, Supreme Court of India.
Reflecting on the launch of the 7th Edition of Project Eklavya (2026-27), Mr. Sriram Parakkat, Chairman, CAN Foundation stated:
“Each year of Project Eklavya reaffirms our belief in the transformative power of legal education. Reaching approximately Rs. 3 crores in cumulative disbursals across 21 NLUs in 7 years is a milestone we deeply cherish, made possible solely by the faith and generosity of our kind donors from the legal fraternity – comprising current and former Judges, esteemed members of the Bar and law firm partners and associates who contributed to this cause. Their support has enabled us to break down financial barriers and provide deserving students with the opportunity to pursue their legal aspirations without constraint. Our mission remains unwavering to ensure that talent and ambition find their due recognition and that every student receives the encouragement they need to excel in their chosen path. As we move forward we are more determined than ever to expand our reach and continue nurturing talent that will shape the future of the legal profession across the nation.”
Since its establishment in 2018-19, the CAN Foundation has made significant strides towards its mission of fostering a sense of community within the National Law Universities and promoting legal awareness and education.
Eligibility Criteria:
For applying under Project Eklavya 2026-27, the Student must:
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Be enrolled in any undergraduate degree of any National Law University;
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Be currently in II year or above;
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Have secured a minimum of 70% aggregate/average marks in the last 3 semesters (or the last two semesters for students currently in their 2nd Year);
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A minimum of 75% attendance in the last three semesters (Last 2 semesters in case of second year);
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Have an Annual Cumulative Family Income (Inclusive of father, mother, unmarried brother or sister) that does not exceed INR 8,00,000 per year, including the current financial year.
How to Apply:
The detailed Application Form with the instructions for Project Eklavya 2026 is available and can be accessed at the official website of the CAN Foundation at https://www.canfoundation.in/project-eklavya.
The deadline for sending the duly filled applications is 11th September, 2026.
