Rayat Shikshan Sanstha is one of the largest and most respected educational institutions in Asia, headquartered in Satara, Maharashtra. Founded in 1919 by the visionary social reformer Dr. Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil, the Sanstha was established with the mission of providing quality education to the masses, particularly the underprivileged and marginalized communities. The term "Rayat" translates to "subjects" or "peasants," reflecting the organization's commitment to uplifting rural and disadvantaged populations through education.
The core mission of Rayat Shikshan Sanstha is to offer liberal and vocational education from pre-primary to university levels. It aims to reach students across remote, tribal, rural, semi-urban, and urban areas, with a special focus on economically and socially backward sections of society. The Sanstha is also dedicated to promoting women's education by establishing girls' schools, high schools, and colleges.
Dr. Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil, born on September 22, 1887, in Kumbhoj, Kolhapur district, was deeply influenced by social reformers like Mahatma Jyotirao Phule and Rajarshi Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj. Recognizing education as a powerful tool for social change, he founded the Rayat Shikshan Sanstha in 1919 by opening a boarding house at Kale (Tal-Karad, Dist-Satara). This initiative laid the foundation for an extensive educational movement aimed at eradicating social evils such as caste hierarchy, illiteracy, and economic inequality.
During his lifetime, Dr. Patil established numerous educational institutions, including 38 boarding schools, 578 voluntary schools, six training colleges, 108 secondary schools, and three colleges.
Today, Rayat Shikshan Sanstha operates over 700 educational institutions across 14 districts in Maharashtra and one in Karnataka. These include pre-primary schools, high schools, colleges, ashram schools, and hostels. The Sanstha's extensive network serves as a testament to its enduring commitment to educational and social development.
Dr. Karmaveer Bhaurao Patil's relentless efforts in promoting education earned him the title "Karmaveer" (King of Actions) and the prestigious Padma Bhushan award in 1959. His philosophy of "earn and learn" continues to inspire educational initiatives aimed at empowering the underprivileged.
For more information about Rayat Shikshan Sanstha and its ongoing initiatives, you can visit their official website: rayatshikshan.edu.