INSPIRE Award MANAK Overview
Uttar Pradesh Leads INSPIRE Award MANAK Nominations: The INSPIRE Award MANAK (Million Minds Augmenting National Aspiration and Knowledge) is a flagship initiative of the Department of Science and Technology. It encourages students from classes 6 to 12 to submit original, innovative ideas. The scheme aims to promote scientific thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills among young learners across India.
Static GK fact: The INSPIRE Awards scheme was launched in 2010 to nurture innovation among school students nationwide.
Uttar Pradesh Nomination Growth
Uttar Pradesh registered 2,80,747 nominations in 2023-24, surpassing its previous year’s total by 70,000. From 25,166 nominations in 2020-21, the growth demonstrates the state’s increasing focus on innovation-led education. The current figure is the highest ever for any state since the scheme’s inception.
Static GK Tip: Uttar Pradesh is India’s most populous state, which contributes to its high student participation.
District-wise Contributions
All 75 districts of UP recorded growth in nominations. 22 UP districts rank among the top 50 nationwide. Leading districts include Pratapgarh (7,085), Prayagraj (6,929), Lucknow (6,721), and Hardoi (6,689). The data indicates broad engagement across both urban and rural schools, highlighting the scheme’s extensive reach.
Comparison with Other States
UP leads by a wide margin. Rajasthan and Karnataka follow with 1,41,142 and 1,01,656 nominations respectively. UP surpasses Rajasthan by 1.39 lakh nominations and Karnataka by 1.79 lakh. States like Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Jharkhand trail significantly behind.
Static GK fact: Karnataka is known for its strong emphasis on science and technology education at the school level.
Inclusive School Participation
Nominations came from a variety of educational institutions. These include the Secondary Education Department, Junior High Schools under the Council of Basic Education, Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas, Composite Schools, and Sanskrit schools. This variety reflects the scheme’s inclusive approach, extending beyond mainstream schools.
Role of Officials and Communities
The success is attributed to the combined efforts of government officials, teachers, and local communities. Active promotion by the state education administration helped mobilise students and schools. Their coordination ensured maximum outreach and participation across the state.
Timeline and Submission Process
The online nomination window for 2023-24 was open from 15 June to 30 September. Students submitted their innovative ideas digitally, making participation convenient and accessible. This streamlined digital process contributed significantly to the surge in nominations.
Static GK Tip: The scheme encourages practical innovation, where selected ideas may receive financial support and mentorship from government bodies.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Uttar Pradesh Leads INSPIRE Award MANAK Nominations:
| Topic | Detail |
| Scheme Name | INSPIRE Award MANAK (Million Minds Augmenting National Aspiration and Knowledge) |
| Responsible Body | Department of Science and Technology, Government of India |
| Target Group | Students of classes 6 to 12 |
| UP Nominations 2023-24 | 2,80,747 |
| UP Leading Districts | Pratapgarh, Prayagraj, Lucknow, Hardoi |
| Other Leading States | Rajasthan, Karnataka |
| Inclusive Schools | Secondary Education Dept, KG Balika Vidyalayas, Composite Schools, Sanskrit Schools |
| Nomination Process | Online, 15 June – 30 September 2023 |
| Key Success Factor | Combined efforts of officials, teachers, communities |
| Scheme Objective | Promote innovation, scientific thinking, and creativity among students |
