Speaking at the launch event, Dr. Jitendra Kumar, Secretary of DST, said, “INSPIRE is more than a scholarship; it is a movement to identify, nurture, and guide the nation’s brightest young minds. Through this initiative, we aim to instill a scientific mindset and empower students to contribute to India’s knowledge economy.”
The INSPIRE programme series includes a combination of scholarships, mentoring opportunities, workshops, and hands-on research projects. Students from classes 6 to 12 can participate in the INSPIRE Awards – MANAK (Million Minds Augmenting National Aspirations and Knowledge) initiative, which encourages innovative project submissions at the school level. Successful projects are supported with funding and mentorship from experts in respective fields.
Additionally, the INSPIRE Internship and INSPIRE Faculty programmes will allow college and university students to gain exposure to research laboratories, national institutes, and cutting-edge technological facilities. The programmes also aim to connect students with eminent scientists and academicians, providing guidance on research methodologies, scientific writing, and innovation strategies.
According to DST officials, the programme is expected to reach over 10 lakh students across India in its first year, with a special focus on underrepresented regions and rural schools. By fostering early engagement with scientific research, DST hopes to develop a talent pool capable of tackling the country’s future challenges in healthcare, agriculture, energy, and technology.
Educational experts have welcomed the initiative. Dr. Meera Sharma, a science educator, remarked, “Early exposure to real-world scientific problems and research methods is crucial. The INSPIRE programmes can inspire a generation to pursue STEM careers while contributing to India’s technological and economic growth.”
The launch of these programmes reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening India’s scientific ecosystem, bridging the gap between academic learning and practical innovation. Students, educators, and parents have been encouraged to actively participate in the INSPIRE activities and take advantage of the resources provided.
With this step, the DST continues to position India as a global hub for young scientific talent, ensuring sustained growth and innovation in research and technology for years to come.
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