Research is the backbone of innovation, and in 2025, students and faculty members across India have excellent opportunities to secure funding through AICTE/UGC minor project grants. These initiatives aim to nurture academic exploration, foster creativity, and strengthen India’s research ecosystem.
In this guide, we explore the latest research funding schemes 2025, eligibility criteria, application process, and tips for successfully securing grants.
What Are AICTE/UGC Minor Project Grants?
AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education) and UGC (University Grants Commission) provide financial assistance to support small-scale research projects conducted by students and faculty. These minor grants are designed to:
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Encourage innovative research at undergraduate, postgraduate, and faculty levels
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Support projects with limited budgets but high academic or practical significance
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Strengthen collaborations between students, faculties, and research institutions
Key Features of AICTE/UGC Minor Project Grants 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Grant Amount | Typically ₹50,000 – ₹2,00,000 per project |
| Eligible Applicants | Students (UG/PG), Faculty, and Research Scholars |
| Duration | 6–12 months (project-dependent) |
| Disciplines | All streams: Science, Engineering, Humanities, Social Sciences, etc. |
| Objective | Promote innovative and practical research initiatives |
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for AICTE/UGC minor project grants, applicants must meet certain conditions:
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Must be enrolled in a recognized university or institution
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Faculty applicants should have a minimum of 2–3 years of teaching/research experience
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The proposed research project should demonstrate novelty, relevance, and feasibility
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Projects should be completed within the specified time frame and budget
How to Apply for Minor Project Funding
The application process for research funding schemes 2025 is straightforward but requires careful preparation:
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Identify a Research Topic: Choose a topic with academic or societal relevance
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Prepare a Research Proposal: Include objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and budget
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Institutional Approval: Obtain approval from your college or department
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Submit Online Application: Visit the AICTE or UGC portal and upload the necessary documents
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Review and Selection: Proposals are evaluated based on novelty, feasibility, and impact
Tips to Secure AICTE/UGC Minor Project Grants
To improve your chances of receiving funding, consider the following tips:
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Focus on innovative research ideas rather than broad topics
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Provide a realistic and detailed budget plan
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Highlight the societal or technological impact of your project
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Ensure your proposal follows all formatting and submission guidelines
Checklist for a Strong Application
| Checklist | Importance |
|---|---|
| Clear Research Objectives | High |
| Feasible Methodology | High |
| Detailed Budget | Medium |
| Institutional Support Letter | High |
| Project Timeline | Medium |
Benefits of Research Funding Schemes 2025
Securing a grant through AICTE or UGC provides multiple advantages:
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Financial support for research materials, equipment, and travel
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Recognition for academic excellence
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Opportunities to publish research papers and attend conferences
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Enhanced career prospects for students and faculty
FAQs
1. Who can apply for AICTE/UGC minor project grants in 2025?
Both faculty members and students (UG/PG/research scholars) from recognized institutions are eligible.
2. What is the typical funding amount for minor projects?
Grants usually range from ₹50,000 to ₹2,00,000, depending on the scope of the research.
3. Can interdisciplinary projects apply for funding?
Yes, proposals covering multiple disciplines or societal applications are encouraged.
4. How long does it take to get approval?
The selection process typically takes 2–3 months after submission of the application.
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