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Education
Maharashtra to Introduce Scheme for Higher Education of Single‑Mother Families
✍️ Mid-Day
🗓 15 Oct 2026, 06:36 AM
👁 15
The Maharashtra government is preparing a policy aimed at facilitating higher‑education access for students from single‑mother households.
Mumbai, Maharashtra – State officials have disclosed plans to roll out a new policy that will specifically support students whose mothers are sole caregivers in pursuing higher education. The proposal, still under review, seeks to address the financial and social challenges faced by these families, ensuring that eligible candidates can enroll in colleges and universities without undue hardship.
According to the announcement, the scheme will be framed as part of the state’s broader education initiatives and will be coordinated by the Maharashtra Education Department. While detailed eligibility criteria and funding mechanisms have not yet been released, the government has indicated that the policy will target tuition fees, ancillary expenses, and related support services.
The move follows growing calls from civil society groups and academic institutions to provide equitable opportunities for disadvantaged students. If approved, the policy could become a model for other Indian states aiming to bridge gaps in higher‑education access for vulnerable households.
Stakeholders are expected to submit feedback during the consultation phase, after which the state cabinet will consider formal adoption of the scheme.
According to the announcement, the scheme will be framed as part of the state’s broader education initiatives and will be coordinated by the Maharashtra Education Department. While detailed eligibility criteria and funding mechanisms have not yet been released, the government has indicated that the policy will target tuition fees, ancillary expenses, and related support services.
The move follows growing calls from civil society groups and academic institutions to provide equitable opportunities for disadvantaged students. If approved, the policy could become a model for other Indian states aiming to bridge gaps in higher‑education access for vulnerable households.
Stakeholders are expected to submit feedback during the consultation phase, after which the state cabinet will consider formal adoption of the scheme.