New Delhi, Dec 05: Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology; MoS PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Space, and Atomic Energy, inaugurated the New Delhi Municipal Council’s (NDMC) Schools Annual Science Fair at NDCC Convention Center here on Tuesday. He highlighted the transformative impact of “Atal Tinkering Labs” in fostering innovation among school children.
In his address, Dr Jitendra Singh emphasized the success of Atal Tinkering Labs, Atal Incubation Centres, and Atal Community Innovation Centres in cultivating an innovative mindset and supporting startups. He stressed the importance of initiatives guided by the mantra of “Catch them Young,” including Mentorship programs and ATLs.
The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), completing its 7th year, aligns with the vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas.” Dr Singh highlighted the crucial role of young minds in India’s future growth in Science & Technology and Innovation. He underscored Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s support for S&T-based initiatives and projects.
The union minister noted that India has made significant strides in innovation, boasting over 1,25,000 startups and 100+ Unicorns. He attributed this success to government initiatives like Atal Innovation Mission and INSPIRE-MANAK Awards.
ATLs, established in schools across India, aim to foster curiosity, creativity, and imagination, offering hands-on learning experiences in STEM subjects. The ATLs contain educational kits on science, electronics, robotics, and more. Currently, there are 10,000 ATLs engaging 75 lakh students actively.
Dr Jitendra encouraged students’ participation in the INSPIRE– MANAK Awards scheme, which received 7 lakh entries this year. He highlighted the success of Jigyasa, a Student-Scientist Connect Programme, and expressed confidence that young innovators would contribute to making India a global tech hub by 2047.
The minister toured exhibition stalls showcasing science models prepared by students and expressed hope that innovation would play a vital role in achieving the goal of a USD 5 trillion economy.
The NDMC Annual Science Fair, themed “Technology and Toys,” returned after a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic. Over 60 exhibits showcased students’ scientific aptitude and innovative minds, aligning with the goals of Atmanirbhar Bharat and Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav.
NDMC Chairman Amit Yadav was present at the event, which also featured science games, quizzes, debates, health melas, and interactive workshops for students. The Science Fair highlighted the Digital India Mission and objectives outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020.
