The Department of Science and Technology (DST), has announced the opening of nominations for the INSPIRE-MANAK Scheme 2025-26.
About the INSPIRE–MANAK Scheme
The Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE) – MANAK is a national-level program designed to foster innovative thinking among school children. Its core objective is to identify, motivate, and support original ideas that have the potential to solve societal challenges and contribute to technology and product development.
Every year, the scheme targets one million original ideas and innovations from students in more than five lakh middle and high schools across India.
New Eligibility Criteria for 2025–26
A significant update has been made to the eligibility conditions this year:
- Earlier, the scheme was open for students of Class 6 to 10.
- From 2025–26 onwards, students of Class 11 and Class 12 are also eligible.
This expansion ensures that older students with more advanced ideas get an equal opportunity to showcase their creativity.
Eligibility
Students of Class 6 to 12 from registered schools under the scheme.
Number of Nominations Per School
Each registered school can submit up to 5 best ideas every financial year.
Timeline
- Opening date: 15th June 2025
- Closing date: 15th September 2025
Schools are strongly advised to submit entries well in advance to avoid last-minute technical issues due to heavy portal traffic.
Call for Action to Schools and State Authorities
All State and District functionaries are requested to ensure wide dissemination of this announcement. Schools under their jurisdiction should:
- Inform students (especially Classes 11 & 12) about their eligibility.
- Nominate their top five innovative ideas.
- Complete the registration process before the deadline.
Efforts should be made to bring onboard schools that are not yet registered under the INSPIRE–MANAK Scheme so that maximum students can benefit from this platform.
Why This Matters?
The INSPIRE–MANAK Scheme provides young innovators with:
- A platform to showcase creativity.
- Opportunities for prototype and product development.
- Motivation to solve real-world societal needs.
By encouraging scientific temperament at the school level, the scheme aligns with India’s vision of nurturing a generation of problem-solvers and innovators.
How to Register?
Interested applicants can register through this link.
Deadline
The deadline for registration is September 15, 2025.
