The Ministry of Science & Technology announced on 14 October 2026 that Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh felicitated 62 young innovators at the 12th National Level Exhibition and Project Competition (NLEPC). The event highlighted the INSPIRE-MANAK initiative, which supports students in Classes VI to XII in turning scientific ideas into practical products. The Minister noted that 25 students have already brought products to market and around 250 intellectual property rights have been generated. The release does not say when the proposed new parent-inclusive sessions will take effect.
Key points
- 62 young innovators were felicitated at the 12th NLEPC.
- 18.27 lakh students have been selected under INSPIRE-MANAK since 2017.
- 25 students have already taken their innovative products to market.
- Around 250 intellectual property rights have been generated by young innovators.
- The programme targets students from Classes VI to XII.
When it applies
- 12th National Level Exhibition and Project Competition (NLEPC)
- INSPIRE-MANAK programme
Who it affects
- students