Why in News?

The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for implementation of the Multidisciplinary Education and Research Improvement in Technical Education (MERITE) Scheme to enhance the quality across 275 institutions nationwide, aligning with the National Education Policy 2020. 

• Funding: Central Sector Scheme 
  • Total Budget: Rs. 4200 crore including Rs. 2100 crore World Bank loan assistance. 
  • Implementation Period: 2025-26 to 2029-30 
  • Target: Engineering institutions and polytechnics, including NITs, State Engineering Institutions, and Affiliating Technical Universities. 
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Education  
• Focus Areas: Digitalise education, develop multidisciplinary programs, boost students’ learning and employability and support future academic leaders, especially women.