The Modernisation and Removal of Obsolescence (MODROB) Scheme is one of the key AICTE Quality Improvement Schemes (AQIS) aimed at upgrading laboratory infrastructure in technical institutions. The scheme supports the procurement of advanced equipment, tools, and technology to ensure that students gain industry-relevant practical experience.
MODROB aims to:
- Support technical institutions in developing state-of-the-art laboratories.
- Encourage institutions to collaborate with industries for modernizing lab infrastructure.
- Promote a problem-solving approach among students and faculty through updated tools and equipment.
- Enable institutes to use the upgraded infrastructure for continuing education programs, consultancy, and industry training.
The scheme is categorized into three variants to address different institutional needs:
- MODROB – Aspiring Institutes
- MODROB – Polytechnic
- MODROB – Regular
Objective
The primary objective of the MODROB scheme is to modernize and remove obsolescence in laboratories, workshops, and computing facilities to:
- Maintain high-quality practical education in technical fields.
- Enhance experimental research and hands-on training.
- Improve alignment with evolving industry trends and technology.
Benefits of the Scheme
1. Project Duration :The project duration is two years from the date of fund receipt in the institute’s account.
2. AICTE Funding Limit : Maximum funding per project: ₹20 lakhs (includes both recurring and non-recurring expenses).
3. Disbursement of Funds
- 80% of the sanctioned amount is disbursed as an advance.
- The remaining 20% is released as reimbursement, upon submission of a Utilization Certificate and supporting documents.
Eligibility Criteria
1. MODROBS – Aspiring Institutes
- AICTE-approved technical institutions/university departments with at least 10 years of existence (5 years if located in a rural area).
- The institute must have at least 50% admissions over the last three years.
- The institute must not have received any MODROB project grant previously.
- Maximum of 3 proposals per institute per year (only one per department).
2. MODROBS – Regular
- AICTE-approved technical institutions/university departments with at least 10 years of existence (5 years for rural areas).
- The institution must have NBA accreditation and at least 60% admissions over the last three years.
- The department applying must not have received a MODROB grant in the last two years.
- Maximum of 3 proposals per institute per year (includes ongoing projects).
- Preference will be given to institutions that involve industry partnerships in modernizing their laboratories.
3. MODROBS – Polytechnic
- AICTE-approved Polytechnic Institutions with at least 10 years of existence (5 years in rural areas).
- The institution must have at least 60% admissions over the last three years.
- Maximum of 3 proposals per institute per year (only one proposal per department).
Application Process
Online Submission
- Institutes must submit applications online through the AICTE portal.
- Applications are processed in a single lot after submission.
- AICTE conducts screening and scrutiny at the council level.
- A three-member expert committee (minimum Associate Professor/Scientist “E” level) will evaluate proposals.
- The final decision is taken by the AICTE Council based on:
- Expert recommendations
- Availability of funds
- Approval Notification: The selected institutions receive a sanction letter from AICTE.
Documents Required
- Application Form (Online Submission)
- Utilization Certificate (for fund release)
- Project Completion Report (on project completion)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is there a helpdesk for scheme-related queries?
Yes, AICTE provides a helpdesk for general inquiries regarding the MODROB scheme.
Q2: Is there a helpdesk for technical queries?
Yes, technical queries related to project implementation and eligibility can be addressed through AICTE support channels.
Q3: What are the main objectives of the MODROB scheme?
The scheme aims to modernize existing laboratories, workshops, and computing facilities in AICTE-approved institutions to improve practical education, experimental research, and industry collaboration.
Q4: What are the different variants of the MODROB scheme?
- MODROB – Aspiring Institutes (For institutes applying for the first time)
- MODROB – Polytechnic (For polytechnic institutions)
- MODROB – Regular (For institutes with prior MODROB grants but not in the last two years)
Q5: How can institutions utilize the funds?
- Upgrading lab infrastructure with modern equipment
- Replacing outdated or depreciated equipment
- Enhancing performance of existing laboratory tools
- Supporting consultancy and continuing education programs
Q6: What is the duration of a MODROB project?
Two years from the date of fund receipt.
Q7: What is the maximum funding limit from AICTE?
₹20 lakhs per project (includes recurring and non-recurring expenses).
Q8: How are funds disbursed?
- 80% advance payment at project approval.
- 20% reimbursement after submission of Utilization Certificate and final project report.
Q9: What is the eligibility for “MODROBS – Aspiring Institutions”?
- AICTE-approved institutions with at least 10 years of existence (5 years for rural areas).
- Must have at least 50% admissions over the last three years.
- The institute must not have received MODROB funding before.
Q10: What is the eligibility for “MODROBS – Regular”?
- AICTE-approved institutions with at least 10 years of existence (5 years for rural areas).
- Must have NBA accreditation.
- Must have at least 60% admissions over the last three years.
- The department applying must not have received MODROB funds in the last two years.
Q11: What is the eligibility for “MODROBS – Polytechnic”?
- AICTE-approved Polytechnic Institutions with at least 10 years of existence (5 years in rural areas).
- Must have at least 60% admissions over the last three years.
Q12: Can private universities apply for this scheme?
No, private universities are not eligible unless they fall under AICTE-approved institutions with NBA accreditation.
Q13: If a project cannot be completed within two years due to unforeseen circumstances, can an extension be requested?
Yes, AICTE may grant extensions on a case-by-case basis based on valid justification and progress reports.