"Atal Tinkering Labs Contribute To A SKILLED WORKFORCE For India's ELECTRONICS MANUFACTURING ASPIRATIONS" 22

Established in 2016 under the Atal Innovation Mission, Atal Tinkering Labs have played a pivotal role in nurturing STEM interests among students in India. EFY's Yashasvini Razdan recently spoke with Suman Pandit, Young Professional, Atal Innovation Mission, Niti Aayog to delve into the impact of these labs over the past seven years

What spurred the establishment of Atal Tinkering Labs for school-going students?

The Atal Tinkering Labs programme envisions nurturing over one million innovators in India. In a nation facing diverse challenges, these labs impart crucial skills such as innovation, creativity, and design thinking. This vision aligns with preparing students for the future workforce and encourages them to address the unique challenges in India through innovation.The first ATL, operational since 2016, was set up at a girls’ secondary school.

How do students, tinkering with wires and resistors, contribute to India’s future workforce?

Atal Tinkering Labs, a flagship programme under the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), focuses on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and electronics education through practical, project-based learning. Equipped with robotics tools, sensors, and 3D printing equipment, students tackle real-world challenges. They serve as dedicated Makerspaces equipped with tools related to robotics, electronics, various sensors, mechanical tools, and 3D printing equipment. The labs also host a variety of collaborative competitions. Many students from these labs have presented their projects to the Prime Minister of India’s Office. Ultimately, these labs help contribute to a skilled workforce for India’s electronics manufacturing aspirations.

Is there a mandated curriculum and timetable for students in Atal Tinkering Labs?