In a significant step toward inclusive education, the Government of Maharashtra has directed all public universities in the state to provide complete academic fee waivers for transgender students and to include a “Third Gender” option in admission forms.
The directive was issued by the state’s Higher and Technical Education Department through a government circular dated March 4, 2026, aimed at ensuring equal educational opportunities for transgender individuals across universities and affiliated colleges.
Fee Waiver for Transgender Students
According to the circular, universities must ensure that no academic fees are charged from transgender students. The academic fee component will instead be covered through university funds.
The policy applies to institutions functioning under the state’s higher education system, including government, aided, and unaided colleges affiliated with public universities.
For students studying in technical institutions, the academic fees will be borne by the Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education from its own funds.
Mandatory ‘Third Gender’ Option in Admission Forms
To make the admission process more inclusive, the government has instructed universities and colleges to add “Third Gender” as a separate option in all admission and registration forms, alongside the existing “Male” and “Female” categories.
The move is intended to remove barriers faced by transgender individuals while applying to educational institutions.
Legal and Policy Framework
The decision is aligned with the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019, which prohibits discrimination against transgender individuals in education and other public services.
The circular also draws authority from provisions under the Maharashtra Public Universities Act, 2016, which mandates universities to implement policies that support socially and educationally disadvantaged groups.
Additionally, the directive follows guidelines issued by the National Human Rights Commission in September 2023 regarding equal access to education for transgender persons.
Implementation of Maharashtra’s Transgender Policy
The circular also reinforces the implementation of the state’s Transgender Policy 2024, introduced by the Department of Social Justice and Special Assistance for the holistic development of transgender individuals.
Universities have been instructed to:
- Ensure transgender students are not denied admission solely on the basis of gender identity
- Prevent harassment, discrimination, or violence against transgender students on campuses
- Provide safe and inclusive academic environments
- Monitor and report policy implementation in their annual reports
Universities must also issue instructions to their affiliated colleges and periodically review whether the guidelines are being followed.
Push for Inclusive Education
The state government said the measures are part of broader efforts aligned with the goals of National Education Policy 2020, which emphasises inclusivity and equal access in the education system.
By mandating fee waivers and inclusive admission procedures, the government aims to remove financial and institutional barriers that have historically limited transgender participation in higher education.
