INSPIRE-MANAK Scheme 2026–27 – Complete Guide for Schools and Students

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has released Circular No. Acad-52/2026 dated 31 July 2026, informing all affiliated schools about the INSPIRE-MANAK Scheme 2026–27. The scheme is an initiative of the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, aimed at promoting scientific innovation and creativity among school students.

What is the INSPIRE-MANAK Scheme?

INSPIRE-MANAK (Million Minds Augmenting National Aspirations and Knowledge) is a flagship programme of the Department of Science & Technology (DST), implemented in collaboration with the National Innovation Foundation (NIF). The scheme encourages students to develop original ideas and innovative solutions to solve real-life problems through science and technology.

Who Can Participate?

Students studying in Classes VI to XII in CBSE-affiliated schools are eligible to participate.

Schools can nominate up to five original and innovative student ideas through the E-Management of INSPIRE-MANAK Scheme (E-MIAS) Portal. Within these five nominations, a maximum of two ideas can be from Class XI or XII (Science Stream).

Important Date

Last Date for Online Nomination: 15 September 2026

Objectives of the Scheme

Encourage scientific thinking among students.
Promote creativity and innovation in schools.
Identify original ideas with practical societal applications.
Inspire students to pursue careers in science, research, and technology.
Build a culture of problem-solving from an early age.

Role of Schools

CBSE has requested all affiliated schools to:

Motivate eligible students to participate.
Identify innovative and original project ideas.
Submit nominations through the E-MIAS Portal before the deadline.
Ensure timely online registration and verification of student entries.

Benefits for Students

Students selected under the INSPIRE-MANAK Scheme receive opportunities to:

Showcase their innovative ideas at district, state, and national levels.
Receive financial assistance for developing projects as per the scheme guidelines.
Interact with scientists, innovators, and experts.
Gain recognition for their scientific creativity and innovation.

How to Apply?

Prepare an original innovation or scientific idea.
Submit the idea to your school.
The school evaluates and selects eligible entries.
Selected ideas are uploaded by the school on the E-MIAS Portal before 15 September 2026.
Shortlisted students proceed through further stages of evaluation.

Official Resources

CBSE Circular: CBSE Circular No. Acad-52/2026
INSPIRE-MANAK Portal: INSPIRE-MANAK E-MIAS Portal

Conclusion

The INSPIRE-MANAK Scheme 2026–27 is an excellent opportunity for students to transform innovative ideas into meaningful scientific projects. CBSE has encouraged all affiliated schools to actively participate and submit nominations well before 15 September 2026. Students with creative solutions to everyday problems should make the most of this initiative and represent their schools at higher levels of innovation competitions.