Pune: The Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Research, Training, and Human Development Institute (SARATHI) has announced an opportunity for students from Maratha, Kunbi, Maratha-Kunbi, and Kunbi-Maratha communities in Maharashtra to apply for the "Maharaja Sayajirao Gaikwad - Sarathi Merit Scholarship Scheme."

This initiative supports students pursuing postgraduate, postgraduate diploma, and research programs (Ph.D.) at foreign universities ranked within the top 200 by the QS World University Rankings.

The scholarship is intended for the academic year 2024-25, and applications are now being accepted online until January 30, 2025. Eligible candidates can submit their applications via SARATHI’s official website.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Applicants must have secured at least 55% marks in their undergraduate degree.

• The candidate and their parents/guardians must be Indian citizens and permanent residents of Maharashtra.

• The family’s combined annual income, including the candidate’s income if employed, should not exceed ₹8 lakh for the financial year 2023-24.

• Students must provide a printed copy of their online application along with attested documents for verification at Sarathi’s headquarters.

Background and Details:

The scholarship process is conducted twice a year, and SARATHI initially advertised 75 seats for 2024-25. However, 31 seats remained vacant as no applications were received. Following demands from students, SARATHI reopened applications to fill these vacant seats.

According to a senior SARATHI official, this step is aimed at ensuring meritorious students do not miss out on financial assistance for studying abroad. Interested candidates are encouraged to visit the official website https://sarthimaharashtragov.in/ to complete the application process.