The INSPIRE scheme (Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research) is a flagship initiative launched by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India. The program is created for students from Class 6 to 10, helping to spark a passion for science in them at the outset of their school years. The scheme is designed to introduce younger generations to science by helping them through mentorship and by giving them opportunities. In this article, we will explore all the important aspects of the INSPIRE Awards MANAK scheme 2025, including eligibility, registration process, selection, timeline, benefits, and preparation tips.

The program spotlights original science projects in schools, helping students across the nation, especially those from less-represented and rural areas. Those who are chosen are awarded funding and allowed to present their inventions to judges at different levels.

What is INSPIRE Scheme?

The INSPIRE Awards MANAK (Million Minds Augmenting National Aspirations and Knowledge) scheme is a part of the larger INSPIRE initiative by DST. It tries to inspire students in grades 6 through 10 to tackle problems in their local community or society with their own ideas. Showcases of the shortlisted projects happen at various levels, from the District to the State and National and the top ones could be presented internationally.

Overview of INSPIRE Awards MANAK Scheme 2025

Key Components of INSPIRE Scheme

INSPIRE Scheme Eligibility Criteria

Classes 6 to 10 in any recognized school (government or private) in India are eligible to join. Each student may only send in one project to be judged. It must be a fresh concept, realistic to implement, and be connected to what matters to society. Every region is invited to join, with special attention given to underserved and remote places.

Eligibility Criteria of INSPIRE Scheme

• Those enrolled in Classes 6-10 at any regular school in India can participate.

• Students can only submit one idea or innovation each

• The project should not be copied, need to serve a purpose and have a solid basis in science or technology.

• Students coming from public, private and rural schools are strongly encouraged to join.

• The idea must solve a local issue using a creative and realistic way.

Subjects and Focus Areas for INSPIRE Scheme

The INSPIRE Awards MANAK scheme allows students to work across a wide range of areas that directly impact day-to-day life. A number of the most usual categories are:

• Energy

• Environment

• Health

• Agriculture

• Transport

• Communication

• Water conservation

• Waste management

• Food and nutrition

• Robotics and automation

The categories aim to identify solutions that are important for society, sustainable and innovative in addressing India’s development issues.

Inspire Scheme Selection Process

The INSPIRE Awards MANAK follows a four-stage selection process—District, State, and National levels. Schools first nominate students through the E-MIAS portal, and shortlisted projects move up the competition ladder. Creativity, the ability to work and the social benefits are considered by the jury at all levels. The competition uses multiple stages to recognize and encourage creative and unusual ideas.

Four-Stage Selection Process of INSPIRE Scheme

At every step, the jury assesses the projects in terms of their innovative value, usefulness and importance to society.

How to Apply for INSPIRE 2025

To apply for INSPIRE 2025, schools must register on the official E-MIAS portal. After signing in, officials at schools may submit the ideas for their projects and the required documents for their students. With the online platform and no charges, all schools around India can apply for the competition. To register under the INSPIRE Awards MANAK scheme 2025, schools must first be registered on the E-MIAS portal. Nominations can be made by teachers or other authority figures using the easy-to-use online platform.

Step-By-Step Process to Apply for INSPIRE Scheme

• Step 1: Visit the E-MIAS portal at www.inspireawards-dst.gov.in

• Step 2: Someone in charge of running the school must enter information or register to use the service.

• Step 3: Provide students’ information and ideas about their projects for evaluation.

• Step 4: Provide the synopsis of the student’s project, picures and all supporting documentation.

• Step 5: Keep waiting for more information about the screening and selection process.

INSPIRE Scheme Application Fee

There is no application fee to apply for the INSPIRE Awards MANAK scheme. Eligible schools and students do not have to pay any fees to register or be nominated. The scheme receives complete funding from the Department of Science & Technology to provide the same chance for everyone in India.

Application Fee for INSPIRE Scheme

Important Dates for INSPIRE 2025

The INSPIRE Awards MANAK 2025 follows a structured timeline to guide participants through various stages of the competition. This timeline guides the process from nomination to becoming formally recognized by the nation. Here are the most important dates to be aware of:

INSPIRE Scheme Dates 2025

INSPIRE Judging Criteria

Project proposals are reviewed by experts to check their level of originality, their importance for science and the benefits they could bring to society. It is also crucial to consider if a proposal is simple, achievable and affordable when making a decision. The decision at each level is also affected by the quality of the presentation and documentation.

Projects are reviewed by qualified scientists, teachers and creative professionals. The core evaluation parameters include:

• Originality and creativity

• Relevance to real-world issues

• Scientific basis and feasibility

• Simplicity and cost-effectiveness

• Communication and presentation skills

Benefits of Participating in INSPIRE Awards MANAK

Participating in the INSPIRE Awards MANAK helps students gain national-level recognition for their innovative ideas. It helps kids develop an interest in science, sharpens their thinking and teaches them to solve problems. It also includes mentoring, investment and a chance to learn from new ideas and innovations.

Many students have gained confidence and early skills in science by participating in the scheme.

• Encourages early-stage research and innovation

• Advertises students’ involvement and achievements on a national stage

• Develops a person’s skills in presenting, thinking critically and solving problems

• Gives opportunities to interact with other youth innovators and experts.

Awards and Recognition

Selected students receive the following:

• INR 10,000 will be needed for prototype development per student

• Mentorship and training workshops

• National recognition and certificates

• Chance to attend international events for innovation with representatives from India

• Ideas can be patented with backing from DST.

Preparing for the INSPIRE Scheme

Pupils should study the issues affecting their community and suggest science-based solutions to them. Setting up a basic prototype and detailing how you made it is very important. Speaking about the project in practice makes you more confident and clear during exhibitions.

• Look for issues that are happening in your neighborhood or village.

• Brainstorm practical and cost-effective solutions

• Develop a quick model of your invention idea.

• Carefully track each part of your project and what happens along the way.

• Go over your presentation with your teachers and friends before doing it in public.

Final Thoughts

INSPIRE Awards MANAK 2025 is a golden opportunity for students in Classes 6 to 10 to transform their ideas into reality. It leads to increased curiosity, idea generation and thinking like a scientist, important for progress in the future. If you are passionate about science and wish to solve issues close to home, this plan could help you become an innovator.