AICTE Revamps MODROBS Scheme to Modernize Technical Education Infrastructure

AICTE has revitalized its Modernization and Removal of Obsolescence (MODROBS) Scheme with the objective of upgrading technical education infrastructure. Check details here

MODROBS Scheme: The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has unveiled an enhanced version of its Modernisation and Removal of Obsolescence (MODROBS) scheme. This upgraded initiative aims to modernize laboratory infrastructure, align technical education with industry needs, and integrate advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) into academic settings, with a special focus on rural and underserved areas across the country.

MODROBS

MODROBS, a flagship initiative under AICTE’s Quality Improvement Schemes (AQIS), is designed to elevate the quality of practical training and research in engineering and technical institutions. It does so by supporting the creation and modernization of laboratories, workshops, and computing facilities. The latest edition places a strong emphasis on Government Institutions located in Aspirational Districts, the North-Eastern States, Jammu & Kashmir (including Ladakh), and rural regions—areas where infrastructural support is critically needed.

Under this scheme, each project is eligible for financial assistance of up to INR 30 lakhs, covering both recurring and non-recurring expenses. This special edition plans to fund 500 projects nationwide. Institutions can utilize the grant to procure state-of-the-art equipment, upgrade existing tools and software, and replace outdated machinery. Priority will be given to institutions that have not received MODROBS funding in the past decade, ensuring a more equitable distribution of resources.

Announcing the launch, Prof. T.G. Sitharam, Chairman, AICTE, said: “The revamped MODROBS guidelines aim to strengthen research and development infrastructure, especially in institutions located in rural and remote areas. By focusing on emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence, the scheme ensures that engineering and diploma students gain hands-on experience aligned with industry needs. In today’s fast-evolving technological landscape, outdated infrastructure should not hinder innovation.”

Prof. Rajive Kumar, Member Secretary, AICTE, highlighted the goals of the scheme:“We are focusing on creating an environment where students learn through solving real-world problems with the help of modern tools. AICTE is committed to ensuring that institutions across all regions are empowered to train the next generation of engineers, scientists, and technologists.”

To promote transparency and wider accessibility, all institutions sanctioned under MODROBS are required to register their upgraded facilities on the I-STEM (Indian Science Technology and Engineering Facilities Map) portal. This scheme underscores AICTE’s commitment to quality, equity, and innovation in technical education, ensuring that India’s youth are equipped to meet the challenges of tomorrow.

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