Mumbai: The Yash Chopra Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Yash Raj Films, has expanded its scholarship programme to support 11 students this year, including those pursuing robotics, artificial intelligence and other technology-related courses for the first time.

The foundation provides financial assistance of up to Rs 5 lakh per student to children of registered Hindi film industry and FWICE union members pursuing higher education.

While the programme has traditionally supported students in media, film and creative disciplines, it has now been extended to courses in robotics, AI, engineering, IT, management, law and medicine, according to a statement.

The 11 scholars were selected through a merit- and need-based screening process from more than 300 registered applicants. They will receive assistance towards course fees for the 2026-27 academic year, the foundation said.

Akshaye Widhani, CEO of Yash Raj Films, said the foundation's support has evolved with the changing aspirations of students.

"The Hindi film industry has always been built on the contribution of people working across every level of the ecosystem, and the YCF Scholarship Program is our way of extending that support to the next generation of their families," he said.

"As the industry changes, it is important that the opportunities we create for its families evolve with it too," Widhani added.

The initiative supports children of the industry's behind-the-scenes workforce, including technicians, light men, spot boys and other daily wage workers.