Setubandha Scholar Scheme bridges Gurukul tradition and modern education, offering scholarships and IIT research opportunities across 18 disciplines.
Overview: Ancient Knowledge Meets Modern Academia
In a landmark move, the Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) division of Central Sanskrit University, has launched the Setubandha Scholar Scheme. This initiative is designed to bring students from the traditional Gurukul education system into the mainstream academic and research ecosystem.
The scheme offers selected students the opportunity to pursue postgraduate and PhD-level research, including at prestigious institutions like the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). Scholarships of up to ₹2 lakh will be awarded.
🔍 Key Highlights of the Setubandha Scholar Scheme
- 💰 Scholarship Support:
- Up to ₹1 lakh for postgraduate students
- Up to ₹2 lakh for PhD candidates
- Monthly stipend starting at ₹40,000
- 🎓 Degree Granting Body:
All degrees will be awarded by Central Sanskrit University - 🧠 Academic Recognition for Gurukul Students:
The initiative provides a formal academic pathway for students trained in classical Indian traditions, recognizing their expertise in disciplines such as philosophy, medicine, arts, and science. - 🏛️ Research at IITs & Other Institutions:
Scholars will collaborate with IITs and top academic bodies to conduct research rooted in Indian Knowledge Systems.
📝 Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
- Maximum Age: 32 years
- Minimum Qualification: 5 years of study under a traditional Guru or Gurukul
- No formal degree required
- Demonstrated excellence in traditional or classical disciplines
- Application Deadline: August 15
🧪 Research Disciplines Open to Scholars
Students can apply to conduct research in 18 diverse fields, combining traditional knowledge and modern science:
- Anvikshiki Vidya – Vedic philosophy, logic, cognitive sciences
- Vak & Language Analysis – Sanskrit grammar, linguistics
- History & Civilization Studies – Indian culture and heritage
- Dharmashastra & Law – Religious law, secular jurisprudence
- Politics & Economics – Strategic and political studies
- Math, Physics & Jyotisha – Vedic math, astronomy
- Ayurveda & Health Sciences
- Substance & Nutrition Science – Chemistry, nutrition
- Agriculture & Animal Husbandry – Traditional farming methods
- Architecture & Engineering – Vastu shastra
- Rasa-Metal Science – Metallurgy and alchemy
- Mechanical & Digital Engineering
- Gandharva Vidya – Music, theatre, performing arts
- Visual Arts & Sculpture – Iconography and fine arts
- Decorative Arts – Fashion and interior design
- Education & Recreation
- Vedas & Vedanga Philosophy
- Dandaniti Vidya – Indian political philosophy and governance
📢 What Experts Are Saying
“This scheme will serve as a historic bridge between India’s ancient wisdom and cutting-edge global research,” said Professor Srinivasa Varkhedi, Vice-Chancellor of Central Sanskrit University.
“We are giving recognition to scholars who have mastered traditional disciplines outside the modern degree system.”
✅ Why This Matters
- Revives and promotes Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS)
- Gives formal academic access to traditionally trained students
- Encourages cross-disciplinary research blending ancient and modern sciences
- Offers a new route for students without conventional degrees to enter elite institutions like IITs
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