The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the continuation of the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) under NITI Aayog, with an expanded scope and a budget allocation of Rs. 2,750 crore for the period up to March 31, 2028.
This approval highlights the government’s commitment to fostering a robust innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem, aimed at enhancing India’s global competitiveness and achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat.
Key Features of AIM 2.0:
Building on AIM 1.0 Success
- Initiatives like Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) and Atal Incubation Centers (AIC) laid the foundation for innovation infrastructure in AIM 1.0.
- AIM 2.0 focuses on filling gaps and scaling successes by integrating efforts across central and state governments, academia, industry, and the community.
Strategic Focus Areas
AIM 2.0 targets strengthening India’s innovation ecosystem in three key areas:
- Increasing Input: Engaging more innovators and entrepreneurs.
- Improving Throughput: Enhancing startup success rates.
- Enhancing Output: Creating better jobs, innovative products, and high-impact services.
Flagship Initiatives
- Language Inclusive Program of Innovation (LIPI):
- Promotes innovation in India’s 22 scheduled languages to lower barriers for non-English-speaking innovators.
- Plans to establish 30 Vernacular Innovation Centers in existing incubators.
- The Frontier Program:
- Focuses on building innovation ecosystems in Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, North East, and Aspirational Districts and Blocks.
- Aims to create 2,500 new ATLs in these regions to address regional challenges.
Why AIM 2.0 Matters:
India, ranked 39th on the Global Innovation Index, has the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem. AIM 2.0 will contribute to:
- Scaling the startup ecosystem.
- Fostering high-impact innovations and services.
- Creating new employment opportunities across sectors.
- Elevating India’s standing in global innovation.
AIM 2.0 represents a transformative step toward lowering entry barriers, boosting inclusivity, and driving regional innovation to make India a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship.
