INSPIRE Scheme (Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research) Context: Over the past five years, more than 3.75 lakh students and researchers have benefited from the 'Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research' (INSPIRE) scheme. About the Scheme INSPIRE is a flagship scheme of the Department of Science and Technology (DST) under the Ministry of Science and Technology. Year of Launch: 2008. Objective: To strengthen India's Science and Technology (S&T) and Research and Development (R&D) sectors by encouraging talented students to choose careers in science and research. Selection Process: No entrance examination is conducted; students are selected based on their academic performance. Key Features Implementing Agency: Department of Science and Technology (DST). Financial Allocation: 11th Five-Year Plan: ₹1,979 crore. 12th Five-Year Plan: ₹2,200 crore. Goal: To build a pool of talented human resources in the fields of basic and natural sciences. Components of the INSPIRE Scheme SEATS (Scheme for Early Attraction of Talent) – Encourages the cultivation of interest in science among school students. SHE (Scholarship for Higher Education) – Provides scholarships to undergraduate and postgraduate science students. AORC (Assured Opportunity for Research Careers) – Supports research through INSPIRE Fellowships and faculty awards. Start-up Village Entrepreneurship Programme (SVEP) Background: By June 2026, the scheme has supported 4.32 lakh rural entrepreneurial ventures across India by providing training, financial assistance, and mentoring for non-farm enterprises. About the Scheme Year of Launch: 2016. Part of: Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM). Objective: To foster rural entrepreneurship by promoting non-farm enterprises in villages, create employment opportunities, and reduce poverty and unemployment. Key Features Assists Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and their family members in starting small-scale non-farm enterprises. Provides financial assistance, institutional support, business training, skill development, and business advisory services. Helps entrepreneurs secure bank loans and access benefits from other government…
