Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University in Nanded, Maharashtra, has announced a waiver of examination fees for students from drought-affected talukas for the upcoming winter 2026 semester exams. This decision aims to support students facing financial difficulties due to the ongoing drought conditions in their regions.
- The waiver applies to students from drought-hit talukas in Maharashtra.
- Students must provide proof of residence in a drought-affected taluka.
- Family annual income should not exceed Rs 8 lakh to be eligible.
- Students should not have received any other government reimbursement for exam fees.
- The waiver covers undergraduate, diploma, postgraduate, professional, and non-professional courses.
Which students are eligible for the exam fee waiver?
The fee waiver is available to regular students enrolled in undergraduate, diploma, postgraduate, professional, and non-professional courses at colleges affiliated with Swami Ramanand Teerth Marathwada University, including its campuses and sub-centres. To qualify, students must reside in one of the drought-affected talukas declared by the Maharashtra government. Additionally, their family's annual income must not exceed Rs 8 lakh. Students must also confirm that they have not received any other government educational concession for examination fees.
How can students apply for the waiver?
Students seeking the waiver need to submit specific documents to their respective colleges. These include proof of residence in a drought-affected taluka and a certificate verifying that their family's annual income is below the specified limit. Additionally, students must provide an undertaking confirming they have not received reimbursement for exam fees from any other government scheme. The colleges will scrutinize and verify these documents before granting the fee waiver.
What exams does the waiver cover?
The waiver applies to the winter 2026 semester examinations, scheduled for November and December. It covers all eligible students appearing for exams under the university's jurisdiction during this period.
Why did the university decide to waive exam fees?
The decision followed a meeting chaired by the Maharashtra state higher and technical education minister on October 1, which reviewed the drought situation across the state. During this meeting, officials instructed universities to provide relief to students from drought-affected areas by waiving examination fees. This measure aims to ease the financial burden on families struggling due to drought conditions.
How many talukas are drought-affected in Maharashtra?
Out of 358 talukas in Maharashtra, 265 have been officially declared drought-affected. This widespread impact has prompted educational institutions and the government to take steps to support affected students.
What should students do to avail the waiver?
Eligible students should promptly contact their colleges with the required documents, including proof of residence, income certificate, and the prescribed undertaking. The university's Board of Examinations and Evaluation has emphasized the importance of submitting accurate documentation to ensure the fee waiver is granted without delay.
