INSPIRE Awards MANAK Scheme 2024-25: Empowering Young Innovators
The INSPIRE Awards MANAK Scheme 2024-25 is a fantastic opportunity for school students across India, specifically those studying in Classes 6 to 10. This program, backed by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, aims to encourage young minds to come up with creative solutions to address real-world problems using science and technology. Selected students will receive a one-time award of ₹10,000 to further develop their innovative ideas!
What is the INSPIRE Awards MANAK Scheme?
The INSPIRE Awards MANAK Scheme (Million Minds Augmenting National Aspirations and Knowledge) is a flagship program designed to inspire students to think creatively and use science to solve societal challenges. Through this initiative, students can showcase their original ideas and work towards making them a reality.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the INSPIRE Awards MANAK Scheme, students must:
- Be studying in Classes 6 to 10.
- Be 10 to 15 years old.
- Each school can nominate 2-3 students for the award.
Benefits of the Program
- Selected students will receive a one-time award of ₹10,000.
- Winners will also get a chance to participate in the National Level Exhibition & Project Competition (NLEPC).
- Top students selected for NLEPC will receive mentorship from top technology institutions and funding to develop prototypes.
- The best 60 projects will be further supported for development and may be showcased at the Annual Festival of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (FINE).
- Selected students may also get the opportunity to visit Japan under the Sakura Exchange Program.
How to Apply?
Here’s how schools can nominate students for the INSPIRE Awards MANAK Scheme:
- Click the ‘Apply Now’ button.
- Register or log in with your school’s email ID.
- Complete the registration by filling in the required details.
- Select the ‘Student Nomination’ option and upload the student’s details and photograph.
- Submit the nomination and generate the acknowledgement.
Note: Schools must submit nominations before the deadline to avoid last-minute rushes.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 15th September 2024
Selection Process
The selection of ideas will be based on various factors, including:
- Novelty of the idea.
- Social applicability and user-friendliness.
- Environment-friendliness of the solution.
- Comparative advantage over existing technologies.
There are three stages of selection:
- District & State Level: Evaluated by District and State Nodal Officers.
- National Level: The DST will set up a jury for NLEPC.
- National Innovation Foundation (NIF): NIF will assist in selecting ideas at all stages.
The top 1,000 ideas will be presented at the National Level Exhibition & Project Competition (NLEPC), with the best 60 projects receiving further support for development.
Documents Required
- A photograph of the student.
- The student’s bank passbook details.
- The student’s Aadhaar number.
- The student’s school identity card (if available).
Last Words
The INSPIRE Awards MANAK Scheme 2024-25 is an amazing opportunity for young innovators to bring their creative ideas to life. With a one-time award of ₹10,000 and access to mentorship, students can work on projects that can potentially change the world. Schools are encouraged to nominate their talented students and help them take the first step toward becoming future innovators.
