Atal Innovation Mission 2.0

Introduction to Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) 2.0

The Union Cabinet has recently approved the continuation of the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) under NITI Aayog. This approval marks the launch of AIM 2.0, signifying a renewed commitment to fostering innovation.

An enhanced budget of Rs. 2,750 crore has been allocated for AIM 2.0. This substantial investment is designed to strengthen India's innovation ecosystem until 2028, ensuring long-term growth and development.

What is AIM 2.0?

AIM 2.0 builds upon the significant successes of the original AIM, which established programs like Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) and Atal Incubation Centers (AICs) across the country.

The primary goal of AIM 2.0 is to scale up existing initiatives and pilot new programs. It aims to expand and deepen India's innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem, reaching more individuals and sectors.

Key Programs Under AIM 2.0

AIM 2.0 introduces several strategic programs designed to address various aspects of the innovation lifecycle, from grassroots creativity to advanced startup scaling.

Language Inclusive Program of Innovation (LIPI)

The LIPI initiative aims to establish vernacular innovation centers across the nation. These centers will operate in 22 scheduled languages.

The program's objective is to support and empower non-English-speaking innovators, ensuring that language is not a barrier to participation in the innovation ecosystem.

Frontier Program

The Frontier Program focuses on expanding the reach of Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs). It plans to create 2500 new ATLs in underserved regions.

Key target areas include Jammu and Kashmir, the North Eastern states, and various Aspirational Districts, promoting innovation where it is most needed.

Programs Targeting Improving Ecosystem

This category includes initiatives aimed at strengthening the foundational elements of the innovation ecosystem.

• Professional Training: It involves training professionals such as managers, teachers, and trainers essential for supporting the innovation ecosystem.
• Research Sandbox: Creation of a dedicated research sandbox for commercializing deep tech startups, which often require longer investment cycles.
• State-Level Support: Strengthening state-level innovation ecosystems through NITI Aayog's State Support Mission.
• Global Expansion: Expanding India's innovation ecosystem globally through engagements with advanced nations, the Global Tinkering Olympiad, and partnerships with United Nations World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) and G20.

Programs Targeting Improved Output Quality

These programs are designed to enhance the quality and impact of innovative outputs, particularly from startups.

• Industrial Accelerator Program: Aims to scale up advanced startups by creating 10 accelerators in critical sectors through Public-Private Partnerships (PPP).
• Atal Sectoral Innovation Launchpads (ASIL): Will establish 10 IDEX-like platforms across central ministries. These platforms will integrate and procure from startups in key industry sectors, fostering direct government support and market access.