Coimbatore: The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), launched to cultivate inventive skills and research strategies among school students, has received an encouraging response in Coimbatore.

The initiative aims to instill creativity and innovation during school years, ensuring students are well-equipped before entering college.

Early Start for Research
Traditionally, students begin research and innovation activities only in college. However, experts emphasize that this is too late. AIM targets students from grades 6 to 12, providing opportunities to develop research acumen and foster a mindset for innovation during their formative years.

Funding and Implementation
Each participating school receives a total fund of ₹20 lakh in two phases—₹10 lakh in the initial phase and another ₹10 lakh subsequently. This funding is utilized to set up Atal Tinkering Labs, where students engage in projects that encourage discoveries and innovations. Results from these projects will be submitted to the government for potential policy implementation.

Limited Reach in Coimbatore
Out of 1,250 secondary schools in the Coimbatore district, only 112 schools have adopted the AIM program. Efforts are underway to extend the initiative to more schools.

Jayaprakash, an AIM program instructor, noted, "With proper implementation, Atal Tinkering Labs can nurture innovation strategies and research mindsets at an early age. Rapid efforts are required to expand the program to more schools."

Support from District Administration
Coimbatore Collector Kranthi Kumar announced that steps would be taken to decentralize the program and ensure wider participation. The district administration is committed to fostering a culture of innovation among school students.

Feedback and Suggestions: The success of AIM in schools could serve as a model for scaling similar programs nationwide.