Committee on institute for Marathas, farmers submits report

A committee that looked into the modalities of setting up a body for studying various issues being faced by the Marathas, Kunbis and farmers submitted its report today to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

The two-member panel, headed by noted scholar Sadanand More, has made a slew of recommendations to the state government.

Fadnavis had formed the committee last year to set up the proposed body - the Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj Research, Training and Human Development Institute (SARTHI).

The institute is suppose to study social, financial and educational issues faced by the Marathas, Kunbis and farmers in the state.

More submitted his report to Fadnavis at Mantralaya (state secretariat).

"This report elaborates and suggests the nature, functioning, constitution of SARTHI to extend various educational and employment opportunities especially to Maratha, Kunbi community and farmers," a release issued by the Chief Minister's Office stated.

The committee has recommended various fellowships, stipend schemes, skill opportunities, foundation coaching, career guidance and many other welfare schemes for member from these communities, it said.

"As per the recommendations accepted by the state government, SARTHI will work as a separate non-profit company and look into the welfare of Maratha, Kunbi community and for farms and farmers," the release stated.

'Sanmitras' (good friends) will be appointed across the state for implementing various social initiatives suggested by the panel, it said.

The panel was set up in the wake of demand from the Marathas for reservation in education and government jobs.