Well I am amazed as how much you can learn on the website. So here I am again clearing up queries I have had for years...

So as far as I nderstand one can claim SSN benefits if a person is a non-resident alien and is on F1 status i.e.. You file 1040-NR-EZ. If you are on F1 and you pass the 183 day test (resident alien) you cannot claim these benefits. Is that correct?

Everyone on F1 or OPT is exempt from residency for 5 years, and does not pay FICA taxes. It is not only for Indian.

So even if you pass 183 days test on F1, yoy don't become resident.
Read: Your U.S. Tax Return: U.S. Tax Filing Requirements for Non-Residents (http://taxipay.blogspot.com/2008/03/us-tax-filing-requirements-for-non.html)