DST Expands INSPIRE Programme to Boost STEM Talent in Schools

The Department of Science and Technology (DST) has expanded the implementation of its INSPIRE programme to strengthen the country’s STEM talent pipeline and encourage early-stage innovation among school and college students. The renewed push focuses on identifying young scientific talent at the school level and ensuring long-term academic continuity in science education. According to officials, the updated approach aims to widen participation across regions and bring students from under-represented backgrounds into the national science ecosystem.

INSPIRE-MANAK Promotion for Classes 6 to 12

Under the expansion drive, the INSPIRE-MANAK scheme is being promoted more actively among students from Classes 6 to 12. Schools have been encouraged to identify and submit original ideas and innovations proposed by students. These ideas undergo screening at multiple levels. Selected students receive financial assistance to develop working models, after which projects may advance to state and national-level rounds. The initiative is intended to foster creativity, problem-solving skills and innovation at an early academic stage.

INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE)

The INSPIRE Scholarship for Higher Education (SHE) continues to play a key role in supporting students who pursue science in higher education. Around 12,000 scholarships are awarded every year to high-performing students from national and state education boards. Scholarships are also extended to top-ranked candidates from major entrance examinations who opt for undergraduate and postgraduate courses in basic and natural sciences. The objective is to retain meritorious students within the science stream and strengthen research-oriented careers.

Vigyan Jyoti to Encourage Girls in STEM

DST has also strengthened Vigyan Jyoti, a focused initiative aimed at encouraging more girls to pursue STEM disciplines. The programme offers structured mentoring, academic sessions, laboratory exposure and interactions with scientists and researchers. Participating students benefit from engagements with institutions such as IITs, NITs and national research laboratories, helping them gain early exposure to scientific research and career pathways.