MahaDBT Maintenance Allowance for VJNT & SBC Students 2026 in Maharashtra – Hostel Students Guide

Introduction: MahaDBT Maintenance Allowance for VJNT & SBC Students 2026

The MahaDBT Maintenance Allowance for VJNT & SBC Students 2026 is a crucial financial support scheme offered by the Government of Maharashtra for students belonging to Vimukta Jati (VJNT) and Special Backward Class (SBC) categories. This scholarship is especially important for hostel students, as it helps cover living expenses, food costs, and daily academic needs while pursuing post-matric education.

The allowance is implemented through the MahaDBT portal under the Other Backward Bahujan Welfare Department, ensuring transparent Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to eligible students.

Who Should Apply for MahaDBT Maintenance Allowance 2026?

Students should apply for this scheme if they:

• Belong to VJNT or SBC category

• Are residents of Maharashtra

• Are pursuing post-matric education

• Stay in a government or approved hostel

• Require financial assistance for living expenses

This scheme is specifically beneficial for hostel students studying away from home.

Eligibility Criteria for MahaDBT Maintenance Allowance (VJNT & SBC)

Category Eligibility

• Applicant must belong to:

  • VJNT (Vimukta Jati / Nomadic Tribes)

  • SBC (Special Backward Class)

Domicile Requirement

• Must be a permanent resident of Maharashtra

Income Limit (Actual)

• Annual family income must be ₹1,00,000 or below

Educational Eligibility

• Student must be studying in post-matric courses, including:

  • Class 11–12

  • Diploma courses

  • Undergraduate courses

  • Postgraduate courses

  • Professional courses

Hostel Requirement

• Student must be a hosteller in:

  • Government hostel

  • Government-approved hostel

Maintenance Allowance Amount for Hostel Students (2026)

The maintenance allowance amount depends on the course group and is paid annually through DBT.

Hostel Allowance Amount (Approximate)

• Group A courses: ₹7,000 per year

• Group B courses: ₹5,000 per year

• Group C courses: ₹4,000 per year

The amount is credited directly to the student’s Aadhaar-linked bank account.

Benefits of MahaDBT Maintenance Allowance for VJNT & SBC Students

• Financial support for food, accommodation, and daily expenses

• Reduces dropout rates among hostel students

• Encourages continuation of higher education

• Transparent DBT payment system

• Supports students from economically weaker backgrounds

Documents Required for MahaDBT Maintenance Allowance 2026

Students must upload valid and updated documents on MahaDBT:

• Caste Certificate (VJNT / SBC)

• Caste Validity Certificate (if applicable)

• Income Certificate (≤ ₹1,00,000)

• Domicile Certificate (Maharashtra)

• Hostel Certificate

• Bonafide Certificate from college

• Previous year mark sheet

• Aadhaar Card

• Bank account details (Aadhaar linked)

• Passport-size photograph

Incorrect or expired documents are the main reason for rejection.

How to Apply for MahaDBT Maintenance Allowance 2026 (Step-by-Step)

1. Login or register on the MahaDBT portal

2. Complete student profile

3. Select Other Backward Bahujan Welfare Department

4. Choose Maintenance Allowance for VJNT & SBC Students

5. Fill the application form carefully

6. Upload required documents

7. Submit application and track status

Common Mistakes Students Make (Avoid These)

• Uploading old income certificate

• Not selecting hostel status correctly

• Choosing the wrong department or scheme

• Bank account not linked with Aadhaar

• Missing renewal deadline

Avoiding these mistakes ensures faster approval.

Selection Process & Verification

• Applications are verified by:

  • College / Hostel authority

  • Department officials

• Selection is eligibility-based

• Incomplete or incorrect applications are rejected

Important Dates (Expected – 2026)

• Application Start: July–August 2026

• Last Date: March 2026 (tentative)

• Verification: Ongoing after submission

• DBT Disbursement: After approval

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this scheme only for hostel students?

Yes, this maintenance allowance is specifically for hostel students.

What is the income limit?

The annual family income limit is ₹1,00,000.

Can day scholars apply?

No, day scholars are not eligible under this scheme.

Is Aadhaar mandatory?

Yes, Aadhaar is required for DBT payment.

Can this scholarship be renewed?

Yes, students must renew every academic year.

Final Advice for Students

The MahaDBT Maintenance Allowance for VJNT & SBC Students 2026 is a vital support system for hostel students from backward communities. Apply early, upload correct documents, and regularly track application status to avoid delays.