29-07-2025
Gurukul Students To Get Research Opportunities In IITs, Scholarships Up To Rs 2 Lakh
New Delhi:
The Ministry of Education, in partnership with the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) division of the Central Sanskrit University, has launched the Setubandha Scholar Scheme - a major initiative aimed at integrating Gurukul-trained students into mainstream academia.
The scheme will enable meritorious students from traditional Indian education systems to pursue formal postgraduate and PhD degrees, including at leading institutions like the IITs. Selected scholars will receive monthly scholarships starting from Rs 40,000.
Postgraduate students will be eligible for scholarships of up to Rs 1 lakh, while PhD candidates may receive up to Rs 2 lakh. All degrees will be conferred by the Central Sanskrit University.
According to Professor Srinivasa Varkhedi, Vice-Chancellor of Central Sanskrit University, this scheme will serve as a bridge between the ancient Gurukul tradition and modern research. "It will provide recognition to traditional scholars and unlock new paths for academic innovation."
The move is seen as a significant step in reviving Indian Knowledge Systems and mainstreaming traditional expertise within the formal education ecosystem.
Eligibility Criteria:
Maximum age: 32 years
Minimum 5 years of study under a traditional Guru or in a Gurukul
No formal degree required
Must demonstrate excellence in traditional or classical knowledge
Applications open until August 15
Research Opportunities Are Available In These 18 Disciplines At IITs:
Anvikshiki Vidya Vedic Philosophy and Cognitive Science
Language and Vak Analysis - Linguistics and Grammar
History and Civilization Studies - Indian History and Culture
Dharmashastra and Secular Law- Religion, Society, and Law
Politics and Economics - Political and Strategic Studies
Mathematics, Physics & Jyotisha - Math, Physics, and Astrology
Medicine and Health Science - Ayurveda and Health Sciences
Substance, Quality & Combination Science - Chemistry, Medicine, and Nutrition
Agriculture and Animal Husbandry - Traditional Agricultural Practices
Architecture and Construction Science - Vastu and Engineering
Rasa-Metal Science - Chemistry and Metallurgy
Mechanical and New Engineering - Mechanics and Digital Engineering
Gandharva Vidya - Theatre, Music, and Performing Arts
Sculpture and Visual Arts - Fine Arts and Iconography
Ornamental and Decorative Arts - Fashion and Interior Design
Educational and Recreational Studies - Education and Entertainment
Veda-Vedanga and Philosophy - Vedas and Indian Philosophy
Dandaniti Vidya - Governance and Jurisprudence
Professor Varkhedi emphasised that this scheme is not just about awarding degrees it is a historic effort to restore India's ancient knowledge systems to the global research arena.