Context: The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) introduces the 'Support to Students for Participating in Competitions Abroad' (SSPCA) scheme, aiming to enhance the global competitiveness of Indian students in technical education.

About Support to Students for Participating in Competitions Abroad' (SSPCA) scheme

• The AICTE, under the Ministry of Education (MoE), introduces a Travel Grant Scheme to elevate the quality of engineering education, fostering a culture of research, innovation, and competition among students.

Key Features of SSPCA scheme

• The SSPCA scheme provides financial support and mentorship to Indian students participating in international scientific events.

• Individual students or student teams are eligible for travel grants to represent India in global competitions.

• Financial aid up to Rs 1 lakh per student is offered, covering various expenses like International and domestic travel, Registration fees, Visa applications, etc.

• Total expenditure capped at Rs 10,00,000 for a team of 10 students.

Eligibility Criteria

• Teams of 2 to 10 students enrolled in technical courses notified by the council in AICTE-approved institutions.

• Applicable to B.E./B.Tech. and/or Integrated M. Tech students, as well as 1st and 2nd-year M.E./M.Tech. students with an invitation accepted for an international scientific event.

• Each team is eligible for support once during their course of study.