Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Suniti Scholars Program?

The Suniti Scholars Program is an education support initiative launched by the Y. R. Gaitonde Medical Educational and Research Foundation (YRGMERF) to support vulnerable girls—especially those living with or affected by HIV—in pursuing higher education. It honours the legacy of Dr. Suniti Solomon, a pioneer in India’s HIV response.

Who is eligible to apply?

Eligible applicants must:

  • Identify as a girl or transgender woman, aged 25 or younger
  • Be living with HIV (verified confidentially via ART centres) or affected by HIV (e.g., daughter of an HIV-positive parent, verified by NGO)
  • Reside in one of the eight Northeast Indian states: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, or Tripura
  • Have completed Grade XII (for undergraduate) or a bachelor’s degree (for postgraduate)
  • Have secured admission into a recognized academic program
  • Demonstrate financial need
  • Submit a 500-word personal statement

What kind of support will the scholars receive?

Each selected scholar will receive:

  • Up to ₹1 lakh annually to cover tuition, books, and living expenses (for up to 3 years for undergraduates or 2 years for postgraduates)
  • A one-time grant of up to ₹50,000 for digital tools such as laptops and internet access
  • Mentorship and counselling for academic and personal development

How many scholarships will be awarded in 2025?

In the program's first year (2025–26), 86 girls will be supported. This number symbolically represents the age Dr. Suniti Solomon would have turned in 2025.

How and when can I apply?

Applications will be open from 15th to 20th August 2025. Outreach will begin in July 2025 via ART centres, NGOs, and social media platforms. Offline application support will also be available.

When will the scholarship results be announced?

The list of selected scholars will be announced on 14th October 2025, which is Dr. Suniti Solomon’s birthday.

When will the scholarships be disbursed?

Funds will be disbursed on 1st December 2025 (World AIDS Day).

How are applicants selected?

An independent selection committee—entirely autonomous from YRGMERF staff—will evaluate applications based on eligibility, financial need, and the quality of the personal statement. The process will be transparent, and anonymized outcomes will be shared on the YRGMERF website.

Will my HIV status be kept confidential?

Yes. All health-related details, including HIV status, will be handled with strict confidentiality through ART centres or verified NGO partners. No information will be shared publicly.

Can NGOs or community organizations assist in the process?

Yes. NGOs can help with outreach, verification of “affected by HIV” status, and supporting applicants through the process. YRGMERF also welcomes collaboration from partners interested in outreach, mentorship, or program expansion.

How can I or my organization support this initiative?

You can:

  • Help spread the word through your networks
  • Nominate or assist eligible candidates
  • Offer mentorship or counselling support
  • Collaborate with YRGMERF in an advisory capacity
  • Reach out to info@yrgcare.org to explore partnership opportunities