Marwadi University launches 'Kiran Bedi' scholarship for meritorious girl students

Marwadi University in Gujarat has introduced a scholarship in the name of Kiran Bedi to support meritorious girl students pursuing higher education. The announcement was made during a campus visit by Bedi, India's first woman Indian Police Service (IPS) officer and former Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry, on October 30.

The initiative, named ‘The Kiran Bedi Scholarship’, aims to recognise academic merit among female students and support their educational aspirations. The university said the scholarship honours Bedi's contribution to public service and her role in encouraging leadership and women's empowerment.

On hosting Dr Kiran Bedi, Dhruv Marwadi, Trustee, Marwadi University, said, "While her presence today serves to deeply inspire our students, parents and community officers, establishing 'The Kiran Bedi Scholarship' is our way of translating that inspiration into enduring impact. This scholarship will ensure that deserving young women have the resources and support to break barriers and lead with courage."

During her visit, Bedi addressed students, parents, faculty members and women police personnel. She also spoke to young ones about taking responsibility and preparing themselves for meaningful roles in society.

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Kiran Bedi addresses students on leadership, civic responsibility

The programme brought together students aspiring to build careers across different fields, along with parents and educators involved in supporting their academic journeys. Women police officers from the region also attended the session.

Through the scholarship, Marwadi University seeks to connect Bedi's legacy with efforts to expand educational opportunities for academically talented female students. Details on eligibility, application process and selection criteria will be available soon on the university website, marwadiuniversity.ac.in, and from the admissions office.

Bedi joined the IPS in 1972, becoming the first woman to serve in the police service. Her career spans policing, prison administration and public service. She later served as the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry from 2016 to 2021.