Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Scheme
Typically opens August–November. Verify on MahaDBT.
- Amount
- Varies (typically free transport or small stipend)
- Who can apply
- Rural girl students attending school/college.
- Income limit
- Family income below ₹1 lakh per year
- Study level
- Class 11-12, College / UG
- Apply through
- MahaDBT
- Notes
- Mainly targets rural girls' attendance and transport.
About this scholarship
The Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Scheme is a highly targeted welfare initiative by the Maharashtra government aimed specifically at supporting rural girl students. Unlike the massive fee reimbursement schemes like Rajarshi Shahu or the general Post-Matric scholarships, this scheme is a transport concession and financial aid program designed to prevent rural girls from dropping out of school due to travel difficulties. It is primarily meant for girl students studying in Class 8 to Class 10 (and sometimes extended to other levels) who live in rural areas and must travel a significant distance to reach their school. The scheme addresses a very specific cause of female dropouts: the lack of safe, affordable transportation. It typically provides free travel passes on state transport buses or a direct financial stipend to cover commuting costs. Operating alongside other schemes on the MahaDBT or local district portals, it stands out for its geographical and gender-specific focus, ensuring that distance and travel costs do not deny a rural girl her right to basic secondary education.
Documents you need
- Domicile or residence proof of a rural area in Maharashtra
- Certificate from the school principal confirming the distance traveled
- Aadhaar card
- Bank passbook
- Previous class marksheet
How to apply
- Check with your school headmaster or principal, as applications are often processed directly through the school administration or the local Zilla Parishad.
- If applying via MahaDBT, navigate to the relevant school education department section and select the Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar scheme.
- Provide a certificate or declaration regarding the distance between your rural residence and the school.
Why applications get rejected
- Applying if you live in an urban or municipal corporation limit; the scheme is strictly intended for girls residing in rural, often remote, areas.
- Failing to submit the school principal's certification verifying that you travel the required minimum distance to attend classes.
Common questions
Is this scheme available for college students?
It is primarily focused on school-going girls in rural areas (Class 8 to 10), though exact class eligibility can vary by district implementations.
Does it reimburse my school fees?
No, it is specifically a transport and travel-allowance scheme, not a tuition fee reimbursement program.
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