Pune: Under the Maharaja Sayajirao Gaikwad SARTHI Scholarship Scheme for Meritorious Students, 44 students from Maharashtra have been selected for pursuing higher education abroad.
The scheme, introduced in the 2023-24 academic year, aims to provide financial support for postgraduate and Ph.D. programs. However, the number of selected students has declined compared to last year.
Details of the Scheme and Selection Process
The scheme offers 50 slots for postgraduate studies and 25 slots for Ph.D. programs annually. This year, two students were selected for Ph.D. programs and 42 for postgraduate degrees. The selected students will pursue courses in engineering, management, science, law, economics, commerce, arts, and architecture at prestigious universities in countries like Australia, England, and the United States.
The Planning Department of the state government published the list of selected candidates after scrutiny by the Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Research, Training, and Human Development Institute. The announcement was delayed due to the state assembly election code of conduct.
Strict Compliance and Penalties
The scholarship approval is subject to verification by the Home Department. Students found submitting false information will face scholarship cancellation, prohibition from further education, recovery of expenses with 15% compound interest, and possible blacklisting with legal action. Beneficiaries are also required to sign a bond committing to serve the state and contribute their knowledge upon completing their education.
Concerns Raised Over Delayed Implementation
Kuldeep Ambekar, representing Students Helping Hand, highlighted concerns about the scheme’s delayed execution. Despite 75 slots available under the scheme, only 50 students were selected last year and 44 this year. He criticized the five-month delay in releasing the selection list, stating that it disrupts students' academic and financial plans. Ambekar emphasized the need for timely processing and filling all available slots to ensure the scheme’s success.
Opportunities for Meritorious Students
This initiative aims to empower students by providing financial assistance for pursuing global educational opportunities, equipping them with skills to contribute to the state’s development.
