State increases scholarships for students with disabilities

Divyang Welfare minister Atul Save highlighted that this initiative aligns with the state’s vision document, which emphasises enhancing education and skill development for all citizens

The Maharashtra state cabinet on Wednesday approved a substantial hike in scholarships for divyang (differently-abled) students. The decision covers students from early childhood up to Class 12, providing much-needed financial support at various educational stages.

Under the revised scheme, children up to Class 8 will get ₹500 per month, resident students from Class 9 to 10 will get ₹800 per month, and non-residents will get ₹600 per month. (REPRESENTATIVE PHOTO)

Divyang Welfare minister Atul Save highlighted that this initiative aligns with the state’s vision document, which emphasises enhancing education and skill development for all citizens, including those with disabilities.

Officials said, “Under the revised scheme, children up to Class 8 will get ₹500 per month, resident students from Class 9 to 10 will get ₹800 per month, and non-residents will get ₹600 per month. Resident students in Classes 11–12 will receive ₹1,000 per month while non-resident students will receive ₹800 per month.”

Previously, scholarship amounts ranged between ₹100 and ₹200 per month. The new provision also includes additional financial support for higher secondary students: payment of tuition fees, a monthly reader allowance of ₹150 for visually impaired students, and annual financial assistance up to ₹1,500 for study tours.

The schemes, managed by the Divyang Empowerment Department, cater to differently-abled individuals aged 8 to 34 and have been updated in accordance with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, which mandates greater benefits for divyang students compared to general students.

For the implementation of these enhanced scholarships, the cabinet approved an expected recurring expenditure of ₹23.11 crore.