A Practical Guide for Students and Women
HDIRI exists to bridge the gap between people and the systems meant to serve them. This page collects verified, useful resources for two groups at the center of our work: students seeking educational opportunities and women navigating difficult circumstances.
We update these listings regularly. If you find an outdated link or want to suggest a resource, write to us.
1 For Students
Scholarships, Fellowships and Grants
Finding scholarships is hard, especially when you’re the first person in your family trying to navigate this. The resources below point you to the most reliable sources for government and private scholarships available to students from minority, OBC and economically weaker backgrounds.
- National Scholarship Portal (NSP): The central government’s single platform for all centrally funded scholarships. Covers pre-matric, post-matric and merit-cum-means scholarships. (scholarships.gov.in)
- Minority Affairs Ministry Scholarships: Dedicated scholarships for students from Muslim, Christian, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain and Zoroastrian communities. (minorityaffairs.gov.in)
- Maharashtra State Scholarship Portal: State-level scholarships including Mahadbte schemes. (mahaeschol.maharashtra.gov.in)
- Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF): For minority community students pursuing M.Phil. and Ph.D. Search on UGC website or NSP.
- Begum Hazrat Mahal National Scholarship: For meritorious girls from minority communities studying in Classes 9-12. Available on NSP portal.
- Private and NGO Scholarships: Various organisations, including Tata Trusts, Aga Khan Foundation and Dr. Zakir Husain Foundation offer scholarships. Contact HDIRI’s scholarship team for guidance.
Need Help Applying?
Our Education Urja team works directly with students across Mumbai, Pune and Ratnagiri to help with document preparation, form filling and follow-up. Reach out to us before the deadline.
Contact: Omkar More / Nisar Ali / Pradip Gurav [numbers to be added]
Upcoming Events for Students
[Placeholder: Events, workshops, essay competitions and awareness programs to be listed here as they are schedule.]
Frequently Asked Questions: For Students
1 I don’t have all the required documents. Can I still apply?
Often, yes. Our team can guide you on what alternatives are accepted. Contact us before assuming you’re ineligible.
2 Is there an age limit for most scholarships?
It depends on the scheme. Pre-matric schemes go up to Class 10; post-matric cover graduation and postgraduation; fellowships like MANF are for research students. Check each scheme individually or ask us.
3 Can I apply for more than one scholarship at a time?
Some portals allow multiple applications; others restrict it. We can help you understand which combinations are permitted.
4 I missed the deadline this year. What do I do?
Mark the next cycle’s deadline and contact us early. Many students lose out simply due to timing. We track deadlines and alert our network. Sign up with us to stay informed.
2 For Women
If You Are in Danger or Need Immediate Help
- National Emergency: 112
- Women’s Helpline (National): 181
- Domestic Violence Helpline: 181 or 1091
- Police: 100
- Childline (for minors): 1098
Organisations That Can Help
| Need | Organisation | Contact |
| Domestic violence, legal aid, women’s rights | MASUM (Maharashtra) | masum.net.in |
| Legal aid and court support | District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) | Available in every district |
| Mental health support | iCall (TISS) | 9152987821 |
| Health — cervical cancer, maternal health | Sassoon Hospital, Pune | Through referral or OPD |
| Emergency shelter | One-Stop Centre (Sakhi) | Available in every district under Ministry of Women & Child Development |
| Education rights for girls | Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan / State Education Dept. | Through district office |
| Pension and welfare schemes | State Social Welfare Department | Through local ward office |
Know Your Rights
- Under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (2005), women can seek protection orders, residence orders and monetary relief regardless of religion.
- Under the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 2019, a Muslim woman can approach a Magistrate’s court for maintenance and other entitlements.
- Women can file a complaint at any police station. You are not required to go to the station in the area where the incident occurred.
- Legal aid is free through the District Legal Services Authority. You do not need money to access a lawyer through DLSA.
Frequently Asked Questions: For Women
1 Can I file a complaint if my family won’t support me?
Yes. You do not need family consent to file a complaint or seek a protection order. Legal aid is available to you independently.
2 What if I don’t have documents (Aadhaar, ration card)?
Document issues should not prevent you from accessing emergency help. Contact us or the One-Stop Centre and we will help you understand your options.
3 Are there support groups or safe spaces for women in Pune?
Yes. MASUM and several local organisations run support groups. Contact us for a referral.
4 I am a single woman and I need financial assistance. Where do I start?
Several state and central government schemes exist for widowed, divorced and single women including pension schemes, self-employment loans and housing assistance. Contact HDIRI and we will help you identify what applies to your situation.