In a significant move, the Maharashtra government has expanded the benefits of approximately eight schemes designed for Other Backward Classes (OBCs) to include the Maratha community. This decision comes shortly after the establishment of a special cell and helpline for Maratha reservation assistance. Key initiatives include the Post-Matric Scholarship Scheme, which will now cover Maratha students, and the Professional Training Fee Reimbursement Scheme for those enrolled in Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs). Additionally, various educational concessions that were previously available to OBC students will now extend to Maratha students in both aided and unaided colleges. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reiterated the government's commitment to Maratha reservation while assuring that the existing OBC quota will remain intact. The cabinet sub-committee on Maratha reservation has been actively working on these measures, following the recent end of a hunger strike by Maratha activist Manoj Jarange-Patil, highlighting the ongoing dialogue and efforts to address the community's concerns.