The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a circular inviting schools to submit online nominations for the INSPIRE-MANAK Scheme 2026–27. The initiative, led by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, aims to encourage creativity and innovation among school students.
If you're a CBSE student, teacher, or school principal, this is an excellent opportunity to recognise and promote original ideas from your school.
What is the INSPIRE-MANAK Scheme?
The INSPIRE (Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research) Scheme is a flagship initiative of the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India. Under this, the INSPIRE-MANAK (Million Minds Augmenting National Aspirations and Knowledge) programme is implemented by DST in collaboration with the National Innovation Foundation (NIF).
The scheme aims to encourage students of Classes 06 to 12 to develop original, science-based ideas and innovations that address societal needs.
How the Scheme Works
Schools conduct internal idea competitions and nominate their best ideas online through the E-MIAS portal.
The top 1 lakh ideas are shortlisted by National Innovation Foundation (NIF) based on their potential to solve real-world problems using science and technology.
Shortlisted students receive an INSPIRE Award of ₹10,000 through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
The selected ideas progress through:
- District Level Exhibition and Project Competition (DLEPC) – Top 10,000 ideas.
- State Level Exhibition and Project Competition (SLEPC) – Top 1,000 ideas.
- National Level Exhibition and Project Competition (NLEPC) – Showcasing the best 1,000 innovations.
At the national stage, students receive mentoring from NIF and reputed academic and technology institutions to develop prototypes.
The top 60 innovations are selected for national awards, further product or process development, and are showcased at the Festival of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (FINE).
Selection Criteria
Ideas are evaluated based on:
- Novelty
- Social applicability
- Environmental friendliness
- User friendliness
- Advantage over existing technologies
How Many Nominations Can a School Submit
Schools can nominate up to five student ideas through the E-MIAS portal, with a maximum of two nominations from Classes 11 and 12, Science stream.
Important Date to Remember
Make sure you don't miss the deadline. The last date for submission of nominations is 15 September, 2026
Schools are advised to encourage eligible students to participate and complete the nomination process well before the closing date.
Helpline
For detailed guidelines and the nomination process, schools should visit:
https://www.inspireawards-dst.gov.in
Important Links
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Final Thoughts
The INSPIRE-MANAK Scheme 2026–27 provides a platform for students to showcase their creativity and innovative thinking. With nominations now open, CBSE schools have the opportunity to encourage young minds to think beyond the classroom and share original ideas.
Source
Official Notice by CBSE, 31 July, 2026: Click here to read.
Kindly note that any and all information is subject to change as per CBSE, the Education Ministry, and the Government of India.
