The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) has launched the second edition of its AICTE-VAANI scheme to promote Indian languages in technical education. Under this initiative, AICTE will provide ₹4 crore to support 200 conferences, seminars, and workshops in 22 regional languages across India.
Objective of AICTE-VAANI
The AICTE-VAANI (Vibrant Advocacy for Advancement and Nurturing of Indian Languages) scheme aims to establish a strong knowledge base in regional languages. AICTE chairperson Prof TG Sitharam emphasized that this initiative will ensure technical advancements are accessible in local languages. It also encourages research publications in regional languages, fostering better collaboration between academia and industry.
Expansion in AICTE-VAANI 2025
- The first edition of the scheme, launched in March 2024, covered 12 languages and focused on 12 technical fields.
- The second edition expands to 22 languages and 16 emerging technical fields, including Quantum Technology, AI & Data Science, Hydrogen Energy, Cybersecurity, Space & Defense, Agrotech, and Food Processing.
Financial Support & Application Process
- AICTE will grant ₹2 lakh per conference.
- Institutions can apply online via the AICTE-ATAL portal from March 25 to April 24.
- AICTE will select institutions based on quality and relevance.
Encouraging Technical Education in Regional Languages
Dr Abhay Jere, AICTE’s Vice Chairman, stressed that critical thinking and problem-solving should be prioritized, irrespective of language. Prof. Nilanjana Dutta Roy from Techno International New Town, Kolkata, shared how AICTE’s support enabled them to organize a Bengali-language workshop on AI and quantum computing in January.
This initiative is expected to enhance research, encourage inclusivity, and make technical education more accessible in India.