Maharashtra Withdraws August 14 GR on Tribal Hostels and Scraps Age Limit

The Maharashtra government has decided to completely withdraw the Government Resolution (GR) issued on August 14, 2026, concerning government-run tribal hostels, along with the consolidated revised guidelines issued under it, Tribal Development Minister Dr Ashok Uike announced in Mumbai on Tuesday.

The decision was taken with the approval of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis after considering objections and suggestions submitted by elected representatives, keeping the interests of students as the primary consideration.

Minister Uike made the announcement following a review meeting held at his official residence, Lohgad, in Mumbai. The meeting was convened to assess existing facilities, admission procedures, and hostel management for students residing in government tribal hostels across the state.

Several key officials and public representatives attended the meeting, including Minister Narhari Zirwal, tribal MPs and MLAs, Tribal Development Department Secretary Vijay Waghmare, Tribal Development Commissioner Leena Bansod, and Commissioner of the Tribal Research and Training Institute (TRTI) Nilesh Sagar.

With the withdrawal of the August 14 GR, all revised provisions introduced under the order have ceased to apply. Notably, the state government has removed the age restriction previously set for admission to government tribal hostels, addressing concerns raised by public representatives regarding students' educational needs.

Following the withdrawal, Uike directed department officials to formulate an improved system covering admission procedures, facilities, administrative processes, supervision, and regular inspections to ensure students receive essential services without disruption.

Uike stated that the hostel system must provide a conducive environment for education and overall development. He noted that necessary measures must be implemented to address ongoing difficulties and deliver hostel services effectively.

The minister added that the administration's goal is not merely framing rules, but ensuring tribal students receive the required support and infrastructure for academic progress. The Tribal Development Department will now work to streamline administration and create a student-centric, transparent hostel management system.