– Ronita Torcato 

For thousands of higher education students across Maharashtra, college admission forms are about to look a little different—and a lot more inclusive.

The state’s higher and technical education department is introducing a dedicated “Single Parent Child” category in college admission forms with the aim of bringing the children of single mothers firmly into the mainstream of higher education.

Tomorrow, June 17, a special online meeting will bring together the principals of around 1,500 colleges across Maharashtra to discuss the implementation process in campuses.

For years, Maharastra has lacked a centralised mechanism to track and support children raised by single mothers. Without data, these students often missed out on government schemes. The new category aims to change that by serving a dual purpose: gathering accurate data and offering tangible support.

Students who qualify will gain access to priority placement in hostel admissions, counselling services on campus and concessions to ease the burden of fees.

“This initiative will help children of single mothers enter the mainstream of higher education and access relevant government schemes,” Patil said , adding that instructions have been issued to colleges to establish the new recording system.

It may be noted that Christian institutions have retained qualified student counsellors on the staff for years.

To ensure the initiative doesn’t get bogged down, Patil also announced the formation of a high-level committee to oversee the rollout on a priority basis and report back to the state government.

The new committee is in addition to the one already active under the leadership of the commissioner of the women and child development department. Key members include Dr Shailendra Deolankar, director of higher education, and Heramb Kulkarni, state convenor of grassroots organisation, Ekal Mahila Samiti.

Also read: Maharashtra: School education dept celebrates ‘School Entrance Festival’