The Union Cabinet has cleared the ₹4,200 crore MERITE scheme to enhance quality, equity, and governance in technical education. Running from 2025–26 to 2029–30, it will cover 275 institutions—175 engineering colleges and 100 polytechnics—nationwide. The scheme includes World Bank funding and aims to boost research, innovation, and employability.

BulletsIn

• ₹4,200 crore outlay; ₹2,100 crore World Bank loan
• Duration 2025–2030, covering all States and UTs
• Targets 175 engineering, 100 polytechnic institutions
• Partners include IITs, IIMs, AICTE, NBA
• Plans research hubs, innovation labs, incubation centres
• Updates curricula to meet industry needs
• Adds internships, skill labs, maker spaces
• Focus on women faculty in governance training
• Promotes multidisciplinary technical programmes
• Expected to benefit 7.5 lakh+ students