No Degree, No Problem: Gurukul Scholars Can Now Join IITs with Fellowships up to ₹65,000
No Degree, No Problem: Gurukul Scholars Can Now Join IITs with Fellowships up to ₹65,000
Govt’s Setubandha Vidwan Yojana opens IIT and top institute doors for traditional scholars without formal degrees.
In a landmark move, the Indian government has launched the Setubandha Vidwan Yojana, enabling students from traditional gurukuls — even without formal school or college degrees — to pursue higher studies and research at IITs and other premier institutions. The initiative, backed by the Ministry of Education and implemented by the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) Division of the Central Sanskrit University (CSU), aims to integrate traditional Indian knowledge systems with modern academic research.
Under the programme, selected scholars will receive monthly fellowships and annual research grants:
- Postgraduate level: ₹40,000/month + ₹1 lakh/year grant
- PhD level: ₹65,000/month + ₹2 lakh/year grant
Eligibility:
Applicants must have at least five years of study at a recognised gurukul and proven expertise in fields such as Sanskrit, Ayurveda, philosophy, mathematics, or classical arts.
Research Areas Include:
- Anvikshiki Vidya – Philosophy & Cognitive Science
- Ganit-Bhaut-Jyotish Vidya – Mathematics, Physics & Astronomy
- Bhaishajya Vidya – Ayurveda & Health Sciences
- Sanskrit Grammar, Performing Arts, Political Theory, and more
Selection Process:
Applications will be invited nationwide, followed by an entrance exam conducted by subject experts. Selected candidates will be formally enrolled at CSU and then placed in their respective IITs for research. Progress will be jointly monitored by mentors at both CSU and IITs, with scholars earning a degree or PhD upon completion.
In its first year, the scheme will support 25 students for postgraduate studies and 25 for PhD programmes. CSU Vice-Chancellor Dr. Srinivas Varkhedi said the project is the first national-level initiative to formally recognise the depth of traditional Shastra-based learning without requiring conventional academic qualifications.
