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₹1.28 Lakh Crore Education Budget: Government Tenders for EdTech and Infrastructure
Introduction
India is home to a thriving EdTech sector, with over 17,000 EdTech companies operating in the country. These companies are playing a crucial role in transforming the education landscape by leveraging technology to provide innovative learning solutions. The EdTech sector in India is witnessing rapid growth, with its contribution to the country’s GDP projected to rise from 0.1% in 2020 to 0.4% by 20293. This growth is driven by increasing digital adoption, government support, and evolving consumer demand for online education.
The sector is expected to reach a valuation of $29 billion by 2030, solidifying its position as a significant contributor to India’s economic growth. Looking at this data in this budget session, the Ministry of Education has allocated an impressive budget of ₹1,28,650 crore. The Indian government is inviting EdTech companies, universities, and training providers to collaborate on major projects under the New Education Policy (NEP) 2025. This significant investment will revolutionize the education landscape in India by enhancing digital learning, expanding educational infrastructure, and promoting skill development.
Top Projects in Education Budget 2025
1. Digital Classrooms Initiative
The government has earmarked ₹15,000 crore for the Digital Classrooms Initiative, which seeks to establish smart classrooms equipped with advanced EdTech solutions. Moreover, to make students’ learning experience interactive and engaging this initiative is leveraging technology to bridge the education gap.
The funds under this initiative are distributed across the following sectors:
a. Funds allocated to expand broadband connectivity in government secondary schools to bridge the digital divide and ensure equal learning opportunities.
b. Introduction of the Bharatiya Bhasha Pustak Scheme for digital textbooks in multiple Indian languages to promote linguistic diversity.
c. Establishment of 50,000 new Atal Tinkering Labs in schools to encourage hands-on learning, creativity, and technological skills.
d. ₹500 crore was allocated to Centres of Excellence in AI for Education to drive AI-powered innovation with intelligent learning tools and adaptive assessments.
e. Creation of five new National Centres of Excellence for Skilling to provide industry-relevant digital skills and online certifications.
2. Construction of New Universities and Schools
A substantial ₹25,000 crore has been allocated for the construction of over 1,000 new universities and schools across the country. This investment will address the growing demand for educational institutions and ensure that quality education is accessible to all students, regardless of their geographic location.
The allocation of funds under this initiative is distributed across the following key areas:
a. Samagra Shiksha Scheme: ₹41,250 crore allocated to strengthen school education and literacy programs.
b. PM POSHAN (Mid-Day Meal Scheme): ₹12,500 crore allocated to provide nutritional support to students.
c. Expansion of IITs: Additional infrastructure for five IITs to accommodate 6,500 more students.
d. Medical Education: Creation of 10,000 new medical seats to address the shortage of healthcare professionals.
e. Broadband Connectivity: Provision of broadband connectivity to all government secondary schools under the BharatNet project.
3. Skill Development and Vocational Training Schemes
To foster technical education and job training, ₹10,000 crore has been set aside for skill development and vocational training schemes. These programs will equip students with the practical skills needed to thrive in the modern workforce, aligning education with industry requirements.
The funds for this initiative are designated for the following sectors:
- Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY): Focus on reskilling and upskilling youth with industry-relevant skills.
- National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS): Encourages apprenticeship training by providing financial incentives to employers.
- Jan Shikshan Sansthan (JSS): Offers vocational training to non-literate, neo-literate, and school dropouts in rural areas.
- Craftsman Training Scheme (CTS): Provides long-term training through Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) to develop skilled manpower.
- Skill Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for Livelihood Promotion (SANKALP): Aims to strengthen institutional mechanisms for skill development and increase access to quality training.
- Skill Strengthening for Industrial Value Enhancement (STRIVE): Focuses on improving the quality and market relevance of vocational training provided in ITIs and apprenticeships.
Who Should Apply for Education Tenders?
The government is encouraging the following entities to apply for education tenders:
a. EdTech Startups and E-Learning Companies: Innovators in educational technology who can contribute to the Digital Classrooms Initiative. These companies can offer cutting-edge educational technologies, such as interactive e-learning platforms, virtual classrooms, and personalized learning experiences.
b. Universities and Institutions Providing Vocational Training: Institutions that offer technical education and job training programs. Moreover, They can develop industry-aligned curricula, ensuring that students gain the knowledge and competencies required to meet the demands of the modern workforce.
c. Construction Companies: Firms specializing in building educational infrastructure, such as schools and training centres. They can ensure that the infrastructure is equipped with modern amenities, advanced technology, and sustainable building practices to create conducive learning environments.
d. IT and Software Companies: Providers of digital education solutions that can enhance the learning experience. These companies can develop and implement robust digital education solutions, such as Learning Management Systems (LMS), Student Information Systems (SIS), and online collaboration tools. They can offer cybersecurity solutions to protect sensitive student data and ensure the secure delivery of online education.
How to Get Started with Government Contracts
The 2025-26 Budget has unlocked multi-crore opportunities in sectors like infrastructure, defence, railways, agriculture, and education. Here’s how business owners and consultants can start securing government contracts:
1. Register on GeM (Government e-Marketplace) & E-Tendering Portals: Ensure your business is listed on these platforms to access government tenders and participate in transparent and efficient procurement processes.
2. Get MSME & Udyam Certification: Obtain these certifications for exclusive tender benefits, such as preferential procurement policies, easier access to finance, and eligibility for various government schemes.
3. Bid for Projects Under Relevant Ministries & PSUs: Identify and bid for projects that align with your expertise, ensuring compliance with government standards and increasing your chances of securing lucrative contracts.
4. Partner with EPC Contractors & Large-Scale Developers: Collaborate with established firms for sub-contracting opportunities, leveraging their experience and resources to enhance your project execution capabilities and expand your business network.
Conclusion
The 2025-26 Budget presents vast opportunities for businesses to contribute to India’s educational transformation. By participating in government tenders, companies can play a crucial role in shaping the future of education, driving innovation, and supporting the nation’s growth. The substantial investment allocated by the government highlights its commitment to enhancing digital learning, expanding educational infrastructure, and promoting skill development. This not only ensures that quality education is accessible to all students but also aligns the education system with the demands of the modern workforce.
Moreover, the focus on digital classrooms, new educational institutions, and skill development programs provides a comprehensive approach to addressing the various challenges faced by the education sector. Businesses that seize these opportunities can benefit from exclusive tender advantages, financial incentives, and the chance to collaborate with established firms.
Learn More
To gain further insights and start your government contracting journey, join Govt Work Made Easy – India’s No.1 Summit on Government Contracting!
- Date: 12th April 2025
- Venue: Andaz Hotel, Aerocity, New Delhi
Book Your Seat Now & Start Your Government Contracting Journey!
