The Maharashtra government’s 2026–27 state budget has significantly reduced funding for a major student aid programme administered through the MahaDBT portal. The Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Tuition Fee Scholarship Scheme, which supports economically weaker students pursuing higher education, has seen its allocation reduced by over 82%. The sharp cut has triggered concerns among educators and students as the scheme plays a key role in helping students afford tuition fees in professional courses.
Tuition Fee Scholarship Allocation Reduced in Budget 2026
The scholarship scheme provides fee support for students studying engineering, management, architecture, pharmacy and other professional courses. Under the new budget proposal, the financial allocation for the programme has been drastically reduced. The change in funding is shown below:
- Previous allocation: around INR 1,821 crore
- New allocation: about INR 322 crore
This represents a reduction of more than 82% in the programme’s budget for the upcoming financial year. The scheme had previously supported a large number of students from lower-income families by covering partial or full tuition and examination fees.
Impact on Students in Higher and Technical Education
The scholarship is primarily aimed at students whose family income is below INR 8 lakh per year. Eligible candidates studying in professional programmes often receive 50% to 100% tuition fee waivers, depending on course type and institutional category. With the reduced funding, many students enrolled in technical and professional programmes could face financial pressure while continuing their studies. The budget reduction affects several academic streams including:
- Engineering
- Management
- Architecture
- Pharmacy
- Other professional and technical courses
Education observers have warned that the decision could reduce access to higher education for economically weaker students.
Higher Education Budget Also Reduced
Along with the scholarship cuts, the overall higher and technical education budget in Maharashtra has also declined. The state government allocated approximately INR 15,604 crore for higher and technical education in the new budget, compared to INR 16,678 crore in the previous financial year. Meanwhile, spending on school education has increased, highlighting a shift in funding priorities within the education sector.
New Financial Aid Scheme for Female Students
Despite the reduction in scholarship funding, the government has introduced a new financial assistance programme for female students pursuing professional courses. Under this initiative:
- Eligible girls from families earning below INR 8 lakh annually
- Will receive 100% tuition fee waiver in selected professional programmes
The state has allocated around INR 464 crore for this new scheme.
Concerns Raised by Education Stakeholders
Education experts and student groups have expressed concern over the large reduction in scholarship funds. The MahaDBT tuition fee scheme has historically played a major role in supporting thousands of students from economically weaker backgrounds. Stakeholders argue that significant cuts could limit opportunities for students seeking admission to professional and technical courses, especially those dependent on government financial aid to pursue higher education.