School Education Minister, Dadaji Bhuse, has urged the Central Government to extend the benefits of the National Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Scheme (NMMSS) to students studying in non-granted and self-financed schools. Addressing the Legislative Assembly, he stated that the current framework of the scheme excludes such students, thereby limiting access to financial aid for many deserving candidates.
The NMMSS, introduced in 2007-08 by the Department of School Education and Literacy under the Central Government, aims to provide financial assistance to meritorious students from economically weaker sections. Presently, students enrolled in government schools, local self-government institutions, and private aided schools qualify for the scheme. However, those studying in private unaided or self-financed institutions are ineligible.
The issue was raised in the Assembly by Member Abhijit Patil, who highlighted the financial challenges faced by students from non-granted institutions. Responding to the concern, Minister Bhuse reiterated the need for inclusivity in scholarship distribution.
He further stated that Maharashtra has already implemented the Chhatrapati Rajaram Maharaj SARTHI Scholarship Scheme, aligning with the criteria set by the NMMSS. However, students pursuing education in non-granted or self-financed institutions do not benefit from this initiative.
To address this disparity, the state government intends to organise a meeting with the Tribal Development, Social Justice, and other relevant departments. The objective is to expand the scope of scholarship schemes and formulate a structured plan to support students in non-granted and self-financed schools.
The proposed extension of the NMMSS would ensure financial assistance for a broader section of students, fostering equal educational opportunities for all. The final decision now rests with the Central Government.
