INSPIRE 2026: Classes 6th to 10th – Complete Guide

INSPIRE 2026: Course Overview

INSPIRE-MANAK 2026 is not a traditional course but a dynamic, year-long innovation pipeline designed to transform student ideas into actionable projects. It begins with school-level brainstorming and culminates in national recognition, targeting 10 lakh submissions from over 5 lakh middle/high schools. Participants explore science's societal impact through hands-on ideation—no lectures, but real-world problem-solving. For 2026, DST plans virtual webinars for nominators, building on 2025's success (17 lakh+ grants, 254 patents). The process fosters skills like critical thinking and prototyping, preparing students for global challenges like SDGs.

INSPIRE is For

This program is tailored for inquisitive students aged 10–15 (Classes 6–10) in any recognized Indian school (CBSE/ICSE/state boards, government/private). It's for those who dream big—e.g., inventing solar-powered study lamps for rural kids or apps tracking pollution. Unlike exam-heavy programs, it's inclusive: no fees, open to all abilities, with special outreach to underserved regions via state nodal officers. In 2026, DST aims for 50% female participation, addressing gender gaps in STEM.

What Makes INSPIRE Special?

INSPIRE stands out in India's crowded talent hunt landscape by democratizing opportunity:

• Exam-Free Talent Spotting: Schools identify gems, avoiding coaching culture pitfalls.
• Tangible Rewards: ₹10,000 cash + certificates motivate; national winners get IIT/IISc exposure (e.g., 2025's 60 top projects mentored on patents).
• Societal Impact Focus: Ideas must address real needs (e.g., health, environment), yielding 33 granted patents to date.
• Scalable Ecosystem: From district fairs to national galas (like 2025's Vigyan Bhawan event), it builds networks.
• 2026 Enhancements: AI-assisted idea evaluation and eco-theme mandates for sustainability.

It's special because it turns "school projects" into lifelong passions—alumni often pursue research, with 80% continuing in science per DST surveys.

Course Features at a Glance

For quick reference, here's an expanded table of INSPIRE-MANAK 2026 features, verified against DST circulars:

What is INSPIRE?

INSPIRE is a DST-sponsored program to attract talent to science from an early age. It communicates the thrill of scientific discovery and builds critical human resources for India's R&D. Unlike exam-based schemes, it leverages the school system for talent spotting. For Classes 6–10, INSPIRE-MANAK targets fostering a culture of innovation among 10 lakh students yearly.

Major Components of INSPIRE

INSPIRE-MANAK 2026 operates in phased layers, ensuring equitable progression:

• Ideation & Nomination (June–Sept): Students ideate (solo/teams of 2); schools select/submit 5 via portal (abstract, sketches, societal relevance).
• Local Scrutiny (Oct–Nov): District Expert Committees (DECs) evaluate ~2 lakh ideas; shortlist for state fairs.
• State-Level Exhibitions (Dec–Jan): SLEPCs host events; 1 lakh winners get ₹10,000 + certificates.
• National Level (Feb–Mar): NLEPC at Vigyan Bhawan; top 1,000 showcase, 60 win advanced awards.
• Post-Award Ecosystem (Apr–May): Mentorship camps, patent workshops; follow-up newsletters track alumni.
• Monitoring & Support: State nodal officers coordinate; NIF provides resources (e.g., innovation kits). This structure ensures 100% transparency, with 2026 adding blockchain for award verification.

Application Process

Step-by-step for seamless participation:

1. School Prep (May–June): Register/login at https://www.inspireawards-dst.gov.in/ (upload NOC, affiliation). Watch DST videos (e.g., "New School Registration").
2. Student Engagement (Ongoing): Brainstorm ideas (1-page proposal: problem, solution, science link).
3. Nomination Upload (June–Sept): Teacher submits via portal (student details, idea PDF <2MB).
4. Acknowledgment: Auto-email confirmation; track status online.
5. Selection Notification: Provisional letters via portal/email (Oct onwards).
6. Exhibition Prep: If shortlisted, attend local events (travel funded for selectees).
7. Award Claim: Upload Aadhaar/bank details post-selection; grants via DBT. Common pitfalls: Late uploads—use reminders. For 2026, expect OTP verification for security.

Important Dates

Based on FY 2025–26 (for 2026 pattern; FY 2026–27 announcements expected in March 2026). Dates are indicative and subject to updates on inspireawards-dst.gov.in.

Note: Dates based on 2025-26 (nominations from June 14, 2025). Check inspireawards-dst.gov.in for 2026 updates.

Who Should Apply for INSPIRE?

Every Class 6–10 student with a spark of invention is eligible—there is no GPA cutoff, only originality and problem-solving intent. The program is ideal for students who aim to contribute meaningfully to science and society.

• Creative Solvers: Kids tackling local issues (e.g., waste recyclers in villages).
• Diverse Backgrounds: First-gen learners, girls (50% goal), rural talents.
• Team Players: Duos encouraged for collaborative ideas. Schools drive it: Teachers scout during science fairs. Avoid if seeking quick certificates. It's for builders of tomorrow. Per DST, 80% alumni pursue STEM; apply if you envision changing India through science.

For Queries: Email inspire@nifindia.org or call the helpline at 0120-4619405 . Join Scholartude's INSPIRE workshops for idea brainstorming. Start innovating.

Updates: Regular updates, notices, and announcements related to INSPIRE can be found on the www.online-inspire.gov.in.