Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme

                  The Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme was instituted by a decision of the Indian Cabinet on 15 September 1964 as a bilateral programme of assistance of the Government of India. Prime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru, who also served as the External Affairs Minister, was the main architect of the ITEC programme. The ITEC Programme of the Ministry of External Affairs was an earnest attempt by India to share the fruits of its socio-economic development and technological achievement with other developing countries.

               The ITEC/SCAAP Programme has the following components: 

• Training (civilian and defence) in India of nominees from ITEC partner countries;
• Projects and project related activities such as feasibility studies and consultancy services; 
• Deputation of Indian experts abroad; 
• Study Tours; 
• Gifting/Donation of equipment at the request of ITEC partner countries; and  
• Aid for Disaster Relief.

           The ITEC Programme constitutes an integral part of India’s South-South Cooperation effort which has been a traditional pillar of the country’s foreign policy and diplomacy.