What is the full form of INSPIRE scheme, which is one of the flagship programmes of the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India? ​

Correct option is D

​The correct answer is (d) ​Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research

Explanation: The INSPIRE scheme (Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research) is a flagship program launched by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, with the aim of promoting science education and research among young students and fostering a scientific temperament in India.

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Three Components of INSPIRE:

• INSPIRE Award (School Component):
  • Purpose: To encourage school students to take up science-related projects and pursue careers in scientific research.
  • Details: It provides financial support (₹5000) to students from class VI to X to pursue innovative science projects. The selected students are further given the opportunity to attend summer camps to deepen their understanding of scientific concepts.
• INSPIRE Scholarship (Undergraduate Component):
  • Purpose: To provide financial assistance to students who wish to pursue undergraduate courses in natural and basic sciences.
  • Details: The scheme offers scholarships worth ₹80,000 per year for up to 5 years for students who are pursuing B.Sc. or integrated M.Sc. in basic and natural sciences. The goal is to ensure that deserving students are financially supported in their pursuit of scientific education.
• INSPIRE Fellowship (Postgraduate and Research Component):
  • Purpose: To promote research and innovation at the postgraduate and doctoral levels.
  • Details: The fellowship provides financial support to students who are pursuing M.Sc./M.S. or higher research degrees in science. It encourages them to undertake research projects in areas of basic and applied sciences.