The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has launched the restructured Research Promotion Scheme (RPS) 2025 to fast-track India’s translational research. Designed to bridge the gap between lab discoveries and real-world applications, the scheme focuses on advancing innovations in fields like AI, quantum computing, semiconductors, space tech, rare earth materials, hydrogen energy, digital twins, and the Blue/Green Economy.
Faculty from AICTE-affiliated institutions can receive up to ₹50 lakh for projects at Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 6 and 7—covering lab and field testing—over 2–3 years. A total of ₹60 crore has been allocated, including ₹10 crore exclusively for polytechnic institutions.
“The scheme ensures ideas reach lab testing at TRL 6 and operational demonstration at TRL 7,” said AICTE Chairman Prof. T.G. Sitharam. Expert panels will evaluate proposals for funding and support.
Tackling Challenges
Many research projects in India stall at the lab stage, often ending with academic papers. “Good ideas must move beyond publication to real-world applications,” says Prof. T.G. Sitharam, Chairman of AICTE. The revamped Research Promotion Scheme (RPS) 2025 aims to support faculty with validated research in advancing their work to the product development phase.
RPS 2025 also focuses on building faculty capabilities in translational research, encouraging solutions for real-world challenges. To support this, AICTE will host workshops on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), technology transfer, and Design Thinking for Principal and Co-Principal Investigators.
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Funding Limit Doubled
Unlike the earlier version, the restructured Research Promotion Scheme (RPS) 2025 doubles the funding cap to ₹50 lakh, expanding support from academic research to full-fledged product development. AICTE will also facilitate access to nearby incubation centers and IDEA labs, helping faculty use existing infrastructure to strengthen their research output.
The updated scheme encourages collaboration with industry and Institutes of National Importance (INIs). It targets emerging domains such as Next-Gen Communication, Advanced Materials, Rare-Earth and Critical Minerals, AgroTech, Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure, and Industry 4.0—aligned with AICTE’s long-term strategic goals.
To build research capacity, AICTE funds ATAL Faculty Development Programmes and supports advanced learning through the Quality Improvement Programme’s PG certificate courses. Selected researchers will attend bootcamps and receive support for patent filing under the KAPILA scheme, which promotes IP awareness and assists in patent procedures.
Project progress will be monitored by institutional Project Monitoring Committees (PMCs) and reviewed annually by AICTE-appointed academic and industry experts, ensuring accountability and impactful outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Restructured Research Promotion Scheme (RPS) 2025?
RPS 2025 is an initiative by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) to support faculty in transforming validated research into market-ready technologies. It focuses on advancing India’s translational research ecosystem.
Who can apply for RPS 2025 funding?
Faculty members from AICTE-approved institutions, including universities, engineering colleges, and polytechnic institutes, are eligible to apply.
What is the funding amount under the scheme?
Selected projects can receive up to ₹50 lakh for a duration of 2–3 years. ₹60 crore has been earmarked for the scheme, including ₹10 crore specifically for polytechnic institutions.
How are projects evaluated and selected?
Proposals are reviewed by a panel of domain experts. Evaluation focuses on innovation potential, readiness level, societal impact, and commercial viability.
Will the scheme offer mentorship or training support?
Yes, AICTE will organize workshops on Intellectual Property Rights (IPR), technology transfer, and design thinking. Bootcamps and training under the ATAL and KAPILA programs will also be available for selected researchers.
Can applicants collaborate with industry or other institutions?
Yes. The scheme encourages collaboration with industries, R&D labs, and Institutes of National Importance (INIs) to enhance the translational impact.
Is patent support included in the scheme?
Yes. AICTE will assist in IP generation and patent filing through the KAPILA scheme, promoting innovation protection.
How will project progress be monitored?
Each project will be tracked by a Project Monitoring Committee (PMC) within the institution and undergo annual reviews by AICTE-appointed academic and industry experts.
Conclusion
The Restructured Research Promotion Scheme (RPS) 2025 marks a significant step forward in strengthening India’s translational research ecosystem. By increasing funding, expanding focus areas, and fostering industry-academia collaboration, the scheme empowers faculty to turn innovative ideas into real-world solutions.
With dedicated support for patent filing, capacity building, and infrastructure access, RPS 2025 is poised to drive impactful research, boost technology commercialization, and position India as a global innovation hub.
