INSPIRE Programme Progress (2021‑26): Expanding Science Talent Across Rural India
The Ministry of Science & Technology reported steady growth in the INSPIRE Programme (2021‑26), with increased scholarships, fellowships, and rural outreach, as detailed by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh. The scheme’s multi‑tiered support—from school‑level MANAK to post‑doctoral Faculty Fellowships—strengthens India’s scientific temper and innovation ecosystem, a key focus for UPSC aspirants.
Overview The Ministry of Science & Technology answered a Rajya Sabha question on the progress of the INSPIRE Programme for the last five years. The response, given by Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) Dr. Jitendra Singh , highlighted the growth in student participation, scholarship awards, and fellowship grants, especially from rural and remote districts. Key Developments (2021‑26) INSPIRE‑MANAK beneficiaries rose from 52,720 in 2021‑22 to 49,805 in 2025‑26, showing steady outreach among school‑going students (Classes VI‑XII). INSPIRE‑SHE scholarships increased from 18,039 to 24,276 , supporting meritorious under‑graduates and post‑graduates in natural and basic sciences. INSPIRE Fellowship numbers grew to 3,364 in 2025‑26, enabling Ph.D. candidates to receive a monthly stipend of ₹37,000 (JRF) or ₹42,000 (SRF) plus allowances. INSPIRE Faculty Fellowship, aimed at post‑doctoral researchers, saw a rise to 477 fellows in 2025‑26, each receiving ₹1,25,000 per month and a research grant of ₹35 lakh. Targeted outreach through State Education Departments, District Education Officers, and digital platforms expanded participation from aspirational districts. Mentorship programmes with premier institutions such as IITs , NITs , and IISERs provided guidance on prototype development and research. Important Facts The scheme’s financial components are: INSPIRE‑MANAK: No direct cash award; emphasis on idea incubation and exhibition. INSPIRE‑SHE: ₹80,000 per year per scholarship. INSPIRE Fellowship: ₹37,000 (JRF) / ₹42,000 (SRF) per month , plus House Rent Allowance and an annual contingency grant of ₹20,000. INSPIRE Faculty Fellowship: ₹1,25,000 per month , annual increment of ₹2,000, and a total research grant of ₹35 lakh .
Quick Reference
Key Insight
INSPIRE scheme boosts rural science talent with higher scholarships and fellowships.
Key Facts
- MANAK beneficiaries: 52,720 (2021‑22) → 49,805 (2025‑26).
- SHE scholarships rose to 24,276 in 2025‑26 (₹80,000 per year).
- INSPIRE Fellowships reached 3,364 in 2025‑26 (₹37,000 JRF / ₹42,000 SRF per month).
- Faculty Fellowships: 477 post‑doctoral fellows in 2025‑26 (₹1,25,000 per month + ₹35 lakh grant).
- Program answered in Rajya Sabha by Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh.
- Mentorship linked with IITs, NITs and IISERs for prototype and research guidance.
- All components include age relaxations for reserved categories.
Background
The INSPIRE Programme is a flagship scheme of the Department of Science & Technology that nurtures scientific temper from school to Ph.D. level. It aligns with the National Education Policy’s experiential learning focus and India’s goal of a knowledge‑driven economy, linking education, science and rural development.
UPSC Syllabus
- Essay — Science, Technology and Society
- Essay — Education, Knowledge and Culture
- GS3 — Developments in science and technology and their applications
- Essay — Economy, Development and Inequality
- GS2 — Functions and responsibilities of Union and States
- Prelims_GS — Constitution and Political System
- GS1 — Poverty and Developmental Issues
- Prelims_CSAT — Analytical Ability
- GS4 — Role of family, society and educational institutions in inculcating values
Mains Angle
GS‑1/GS‑3: Discuss how targeted financial incentives and inter‑ministerial coordination in the INSPIRE Programme strengthen India’s innovation ecosystem and promote inclusive scientific talent.