RT team
The Cabinet has approved the continuation of the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), Niti Aayog’s flagship initiative, until March 31, 2028. With an expanded mandate and a budget of ₹2,750 crore, AIM 2.0 seeks to propel India towards its vision of Viksit Bharat by fostering a robust innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem.
Building on the achievements of AIM 1.0, including initiatives like Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL) and Atal Incubation Centers (AIC), AIM 2.0 introduces a transformative approach. While the first phase focused on establishing innovation infrastructure, the second phase aims to address gaps in the ecosystem and scale successful models in collaboration with central and state governments, industry, academia, and communities.
AIM 2.0 targets enhancing India’s innovation ecosystem by increasing input, improving success rates (throughput), and raising the quality of output. With India ranked 39th on the Global Innovation Index and hosting the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem, AIM 2.0 is poised to strengthen the nation’s global standing and competitiveness.
Key features include the Language Inclusive Program of Innovation (LIPI) to bridge language barriers and the establishment of 30 vernacular innovation centers. Moreover, the programme will design tailored templates for regions like Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, the Northeast, and aspirational districts, impacting 15% of India’s population.
Additionally, 2,500 new Atal Tinkering Labs will be developed to further innovation across sectors, directly creating better jobs, pioneering products, and impactful services. AIM 2.0 underscores India’s commitment to fostering inclusive and sustainable growth through innovation.
