Last Updated on March 19, 2025 by Sudhir Singh
When it comes to nurturing innovation and scientific curiosity among India’s youth, several initiatives stand out. One of the most prominent and effective programs is the INSPIRE (Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research) initiative.
Under this scheme, the Indian government offers three main programs: INSPIRE Award Scheme, INSPIRE Fellowship, and INSPIRE Scholarship. Together, these programs are designed to identify talented young minds, motivate them to explore science deeply, and support them as they transform their creative ideas into reality.
Let’s dive deeper and explore what these programs offer, who can benefit from them, and how they’re impacting India’s journey towards scientific and technological excellence.
India has always valued innovation and creative thinking among its youth. To boost interest in science and innovation among young people, the government launched a special initiative called INSPIRE (Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research). Under INSPIRE, several programs support students at various stages of their education:
- INSPIRE Award Scheme (INSPIRE-MANAK)
- INSPIRE Scholarship (SHE)
- INSPIRE Fellowship
Under the INSPIRE Award MANAK scheme, the government aims to collect around 10 lakh innovative ideas each financial year from more than 5 lakh middle and high schools across India. F
From these, approximately 1 lakh ideas are selected, and each student whose idea is shortlisted receives an initial award of ₹10,000. This money helps the students prepare their projects or models, showcase their ideas, and participate in the District Level Exhibition & Project Competition (DLEPC).
Students eligible for this scheme must be between 10 and 15 years old, studying in classes VI to X. The award money is directly transferred to the student’s bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
The students selected at the district level then participate in state-level exhibitions. Winners from these state-level exhibitions move on to the National Level Exhibition, which is held every year. At the national level, students also receive special mentorship from renowned science and technology institutions to develop advanced prototypes.
All middle and high schools across India—whether government, private, semi-private, aided, or unaided—can nominate 2 to 3 students each year. Schools must submit a brief description of each student’s innovative idea along with necessary details.
The shortlisting and mentoring process under the INSPIRE Award MANAK scheme is managed by the National Innovation Foundation (NIF), Ahmedabad, an autonomous body under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), based on the creativity and feasibility of the submitted student ideas.
Here’s a simplified summary of the INSPIRE Award MANAK scheme in table form:
| Key Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | INSPIRE Award MANAK |
| Target Ideas per Year | 10 lakh ideas from students |
| Number of Schools Involved | Over 5 lakh middle and high schools across India |
| Ideas Shortlisted for Award | 1 lakh ideas |
| Award Amount per Student | ₹10,000 |
| Purpose of Award Money | To create project/model and participate in District Level Exhibitions |
| Eligible Student Age Group | 10 to 15 years |
| Eligible Classes | Class VI to X |
| Fund Transfer Method | Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) directly to student’s bank account |
| Competition Levels | District → State → National |
| Mentorship at National Level | Provided by reputed science and technology institutions |
| Number of Students Nominated per School | 2 to 3 students per school |
| Type of Eligible Schools | Government, private, semi-private, aided, or unaided |
| Organization Responsible for Shortlisting and Mentorship | National Innovation Foundation (NIF), Ahmedabad (Autonomous body under DST) |
Let’s clearly understand each of these programs, their eligibility, application process, and benefits in easy-to-understand language.
1. INSPIRE Award Scheme (INSPIRE-MANAK)
What is INSPIRE-MANAK?
INSPIRE-MANAK (Million Minds Augmenting National Aspirations and Knowledge) is an award scheme for school students from classes 6 to 10. It encourages young students to think creatively and develop innovative solutions to everyday problems around them.
Under this scheme, students submit original ideas related to science and technology. The best ideas get selected, and students receive financial support to build models or prototypes.
Who is eligible?
- School students studying in classes 6 to 10 from any recognised school (government or private) in India.
Application Process:
- Schools register on the official INSPIRE-MANAK website.
- Schools nominate up to five best ideas from their students each year.
- Nominated students must submit their innovative idea (in simple language) online through their school.
- Selected ideas receive funding to develop working models.
Benefits:
- Each selected student receives ₹10,000 to build their innovative model or project.
- Opportunity to showcase their project at district, state, and national-level exhibitions.
- Certificates, awards, and recognition from the government.
2. INSPIRE Scholarship (SHE, Scholarship for Higher Education)
What is an INSPIRE scholarship?
The INSPIRE Scholarship helps talented students who have completed Class 12 and want to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in basic sciences. This scholarship is aimed at motivating bright students to continue their education in science and technology.
Who is eligible?
- Students within the top 1% rank in Class 12 board exams.
- Students admitted to undergraduate or integrated postgraduate courses in science subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, etc.
- Students pursuing courses at recognised institutions in India.
Application Process:
- Students apply through the INSPIRE official website by filling out an online form.
- They must upload required documents like Class 12 mark sheets, admission letters from colleges, etc.
- Selection is based on merit (academic performance).
Benefits:
- A scholarship amount of ₹80,000 per year for up to five years.
- Money covers tuition fees, books, and other educational expenses.
- Encourages students to perform well academically, as the scholarship continues based on their yearly performance.
3. INSPIRE Fellowship
What is an INSPIRE Fellowship?
The INSPIRE Fellowship supports students pursuing advanced research leading to a PhD in science and technology fields. The fellowship aims to encourage talented young researchers to conduct innovative research projects beneficial to society.
Who is eligible?
- Students who have completed their Master’s degree in science or technology-related fields with excellent academic records.
- Students who want to enrol or have recently enroled in a PhD program.
Application Process:
- Students must apply through the official INSPIRE portal with all academic documents and research proposals.
- Applications undergo review by experts, and selection is merit-based, considering the applicant’s research potential and academic record.
Benefits:
- Monthly stipends (financial assistance) were provided throughout the research period.
- Additional financial support for purchasing research materials and attending conferences.
- Professional growth opportunities by working closely with experienced scientists and researchers.
What is the INSPIRE-MANAK Team?
The INSPIRE-MANAK Team is a dedicated group of officials, scientists, educators, and professionals responsible for managing and overseeing the INSPIRE-MANAK program. They coordinate with schools across India to implement the program successfully.
Roles of the INSPIRE-MANAK Team:
- Guiding schools to encourage students to participate.
- Evaluating submitted innovative ideas from students.
- Organising exhibitions and competitions at district, state, and national levels.
- Providing support and training to students and teachers to ensure maximum participation and success.
Why is INSPIRE important?
Inspire and its related programs, especially INSPIRE-MANAK, are essential because they motivate students at a young age to think innovatively and scientifically. By providing financial aid, recognition, and professional guidance, INSPIRE helps create a strong scientific community in India.
Students gain valuable experience and confidence from participating in these programs, often leading them to pursue careers in science, research, or technology.
Final Thoughts
The INSPIRE Award Scheme (MANAK), Scholarship (SHE), and Fellowship programs are powerful ways to support India’s bright, young minds. Through these programs, the government provides students from all backgrounds with a chance to learn, innovate, and contribute positively to society.
In short, INSPIRE makes science education and innovation accessible and attractive, shaping the future of India’s scientific and technological landscape.
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