Have 10K Atal Tinkering Labs Fuelled Innovation in Schools?
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Synopsis
Discover how the establishment of 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in India over the past 11 years has transformed the educational landscape, fueling innovation and creativity among school children. With plans for 50,000 more labs, the future of scientific inquiry and problem-solving looks bright.
Key Takeaways
- 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs have been set up in India over 11 years.
- Initiated by the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) under NITI Aayog.
- Engaged over 1.1 crore students in innovation.
- Maharashtra has the highest number of labs.
- Plans for 50,000 more labs in the next five years.
New Delhi, June 6 (NationPress) In the past 11 years, a remarkable total of 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs have been set up across India, as announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday.
In a statement shared on the social media platform X, Sitharaman highlighted that these labs, initiated under the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) of the NITI Aayog, are driving a culture of innovation among school students.
“Since 2016, 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs have been established nationwide. The reforms initiated by Hon'ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi are fostering a maker mentality, where curiosity breeds innovation directly from schools,” noted Nirmala Sitharaman's Office on X.
The Atal Tinkering Labs have been instrumental in generating over 12 lakh innovation projects and have actively involved more than 1.1 crore students in creative problem-solving and innovation.
Maharashtra leads with the highest number of Atal labs (1,033), followed by Tamil Nadu (975) and Uttar Pradesh (955), according to data from the Ministry of Planning.
In the upcoming Union Budget 2025, the finance minister unveiled plans to establish an additional 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in government schools over the next five years. This initiative aims to nurture the spirit of curiosity and innovation while instilling a scientific mindset in young learners.
Moreover, to position the country as a key player in global science, the government has established the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) with an investment of Rs 50,000 crore over five years.
This program is designed to create a robust research ecosystem within Indian universities, institutions, and laboratories, ultimately making India a global hub for science and innovation.
Additionally, the country has opened doors to international research through the One Nation One Subscription initiative.
This initiative has benefited over 1.8 crore students, researchers, and faculty members nationwide by providing access to more than 13,000 prestigious journals from 30 top international publishers.
“This monumental step is vital in democratizing knowledge and igniting innovation in every classroom and lab,” stated the government.
Point of View
The establishment of Atal Tinkering Labs represents a significant step towards nurturing creativity and scientific temper in young learners. This initiative aligns with the country's vision of enhancing its position in the global innovation ecosystem, ensuring that students are well-prepared to tackle future challenges.
NationPress
07/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Atal Tinkering Labs?
Atal Tinkering Labs are innovation centers established in schools across India to promote creativity and problem-solving among students.
How many Atal Tinkering Labs have been set up?
As of now, a total of 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs have been established in India.
What is the future plan for Atal Tinkering Labs?
The government plans to set up an additional 50,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in government schools over the next five years.
Who initiated the Atal Innovation Mission?
The Atal Innovation Mission was initiated by the NITI Aayog under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
What is the significance of the Anusandhan National Research Foundation?
The Anusandhan National Research Foundation aims to build a robust research ecosystem in India with a substantial investment of Rs 50,000 crore.
