AICTE launches scheme to strengthen Indian Knowledge System

The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) chairman, Professor TG Sitharam, inaugurated the AICTE Distinguished Professional Scheme (DPS) to foster research and innovation and strengthen the Indian Knowledge System.
“The initiative aims to assemble a pool of experts from industry, institutes, and research labs to engage highly qualified and eminent professionals within their domains,” an official press statement read.
The goal is to inspire and motivate students and faculty members of AICTE-approved institutes.
The scheme is designed to enhance the employability of students, promote industry connections, foster research and innovation, support startups and entrepreneurship, and strengthen the Indian Knowledge System (IKS).
Further, according to an official press statement, “Professor TG Sitharam emphasized the importance of experienced professionals sharing their insights with faculty and students.”
“He highlighted how this exchange not only enriches students’ understanding of industry needs but also enhances the teaching capabilities of faculty members. Ultimately, this prepares students to navigate challenges in the job market,” it stated further.
Qualified individuals seeking registration must have made unparalleled technical or professional contributions to society within their respective fields.
Awardees should be acknowledged professionals actively involved in research, technology development, innovation, and bureaucracy, it added.
The tenure of the scheme is three years or until the age of 75, whichever comes first.
Professionals will receive an honorarium of Rs 15,000 for full-day interactions with faculty members and students. They are expected to conduct two visits per month, with a maximum of 12 visits per year, including at least three visits to rural institutions annually.
Nominations, along with necessary details, must be submitted via the DPS Portal throughout the year.
The statement said that the offer of AICTE-DPS remains valid for the specified period mentioned in the request or invitation letter.
Host institutes can apply on the AICTE DPS Portal to request specific professionals from the approved panel.
Following each visit, the institute is required to submit a report and participant feedback in the prescribed format.
Upon submission, AICTE will provide a certificate of recognition for the activity