ATL is a dedicated innovation and experimentation space within Indian schools, established as part of the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) by NITI Aayog, Govt. of India. ATL aim to inspire and nurture innovation, problem-solving abilities, and technological interest among students. STEMROBO is leading EdTech company to setup more than 2000+ ATLs nationwide. Our objective is aligned with this program to create an environment of innovation, creativity amongst Indian students.

Eligibility Criteria:

Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) are open to schools that fall under the following categories:

• Government Schools (Central/State): Schools administered by central or state government authorities are eligible to apply for setting up an ATL.
• Local Bodies (Municipality/Nagar Nigam): Schools under local bodies, such as municipalities or Nagar Nigams, can also apply to establish an ATL on their campus.
• Private Trusts/Society: Educational institutions operated by private trusts or societies are encouraged to apply for an ATL to promote innovation and hands-on learning.
• Tribal/Social Welfare Department: Institutions affiliated with tribal or social welfare departments are eligible to participate in the Atal Tinkering Lab initiative.

Target Grades:

The Atal Tinkering Labs are designed for students in Grades VI to X, providing a unique opportunity for young minds to explore the realms of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

How to Apply:

If your school falls within the eligible categories and you are enthusiastic about fostering a culture of innovation and creativity, follow these steps to apply for an Atal Tinkering Lab:

• Visit the AIM Website: Go to the official website of the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) to find detailed information about the application process and requirements.
• Submit Application: Complete the application form provided on the AIM website and submit it according to the specified guidelines.
• Await Approval: After submitting your application, await the approval process. Successful applicants will receive further instructions on setting up an Atal Tinkering Lab.

Yes, STEMROBO is recognized as an authorized vendor, registered on the GEM portal as an approved ATL equipment seller. This accreditation grants automatic authorization for establishing ATL labs across India.

• Extensive Experience: STEMROBO stands out by having successfully set up 1500+ ATL labs, marking the highest number in India.
• Comprehensive Support: Unlike other vendors, STEMROBO goes beyond equipment provision, offering content support with all the ATL packages.
• Documentation Assistance: STEMROBO distinguishes itself by providing ongoing documentation support and aiding in the monthly maintenance of the ATL Dashboard.
• Event Facilitation: STEMROBO takes a unique approach by actively supporting ATL marathons, assisting students in preparing for national-level competitions like robotics and tinkering .
• Innovation Recognition: STEMROBO stands out by actively helping young innovators file patents for their unique projects, showcasing a commitment to nurturing and recognizing creativity.

No, STEMROBO equipment packages do not include laptops and furniture. The provided packages (P1, P2, P3, and P4) specifically offer content support, but for additional requirements like laptops and furniture, STEMROBO is willing to provide guidance and support in procuring these items separately.

As a vendor, STEMROBO offers comprehensive support for Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs). Our services include:

• Content Support: STEMROBO provides content support integrated into the ATL packages, enhancing the learning experience for students.
• DIY Kits: Unique DIY kits, aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, are offered to fulfill ATL advance prototype requirements.
• Documentation Assistance: We provide ongoing documentation support, aiding in the efficient maintenance of the ATL Dashboard monthly.
• ATL Marathon Support: STEMROBO actively assists in conducting ATL marathons, fostering a competitive and engaging environment for students.
• Competition Preparation: We go beyond by helping students prepare for national-level competitions, ensuring they are well-equipped for success.
• Patent Filing: STEMROBO takes pride in supporting young innovators by guiding them through the process of filing patents for their unique projects, promoting innovation and recognition.

AIM (Atal Innovation Mission) provides a grant-in-aid of ₹20.00 lakh for establishing an Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL). This comprises a one-time establishment charge of up to ₹10.00 lakh in the first year. This initial funding is allocated for acquiring instruments, prototyping equipment, including do-it-yourself kits, 3D printers, electronic tools, etc. The remaining ₹10.00 lakh is distributed over a maximum period of 5 years, covering operational expenses such as equipment maintenance, purchase of consumables, organization of science lectures, innovation events, scientific activities, competitions, and payment of honorariums to faculty and mentors involved in the ATL.

The criteria for selecting recipients of the Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL) grant are typically determined by AIM (Atal Innovation Mission). While specific criteria may vary, common factors often include:

• Educational Institution Status: Eligibility may be limited to recognized educational institutions such as schools, colleges, and universities.
• Commitment to Innovation: The institution’s commitment to fostering innovation, creativity, and hands-on learning through the ATL.
• Infrastructure and Facilities: Evaluation of the institution’s infrastructure and facilities to support the setup and maintenance of an ATL.
• Proposal Quality: The quality and feasibility of the proposal submitted by the institution, outlining how the ATL will be utilized to promote STEM education and innovation.
• Innovation Ecosystem: Institutions demonstrating an existing or potential innovation ecosystem within their premises may be favored.
• Community Impact: The potential impact of the ATL on the surrounding community and its ability to engage students in practical, problem-solving activities.

For the complete guidelines – Visit – https://aim.gov.in/pdf/ATL-Application_Guidelines-2018.pdf

To apply for setting up an Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL), schools should follow these steps: · Visit the official website http://www.niti.gov.in.

• Navigate to the relevant section for ATL applications.
• Complete the online application form provided on the website.
• Additionally, submit a declaration form on the school letterhead online as part of the application process.

By following these steps and submitting the required forms and information through the official website, schools can initiate the application process for establishing an ATL in their premises.

The documents to be uploaded and sent to AIM for establishing an Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL) are communicated to the selected schools via email. Once a school is chosen, a comprehensive list

of required documents, along with detailed instructions, is sent to the school’s registered email address.

The utilization of the Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL) grant involves specific guidelines and procedures. Schools receiving the grant are typically required to adhere to the following steps:

• One-time Establishment Charge:
• Use the initial grant, up to ₹10.00 lakh, for setting up the ATL infrastructure, including instruments, prototyping equipment (e.g., do-it-yourself kits, 3D printers, electronic tools), and necessary facilities.
• Operational Expenses Over 5 Years:
• Allocate the remaining ₹10.00 lakh over a maximum period of 5 years.
• Utilize these funds for the ongoing operational expenses of the ATL, such as equipment maintenance, purchase of consumables, organization of popular science lecture series, innovation events, scientific activities, competitions, and payment of honorariums to faculty and mentors involved.
• Adherence to Guidelines:
• Adhere to the guidelines and regulations set by the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) for appropriate grant use.
• Ensure transparency and accountability in financial transactions related to the ATL grant.
• Regular Reporting:
• Submit regular reports and updates to AIM as per the specified requirements.
• Provide details on how the grant funds are utilized, including a breakdown of expenses and their impact on fostering innovation and STEM education.
• Compliance with AIM Policies:
• Comply with any additional policies or guidelines issued by AIM regarding the use of the ATL grant.

It is crucial for schools to familiarize themselves with the specific terms and conditions outlined by AIM and to maintain accurate records of expenditure to ensure proper utilization of the grant funds. Schools may also receive support and guidance from AIM throughout the process.

Yes, the ATL grant does cover the renovation of the lab. According to the Grant Utilization guidelines, schools can allocate up to Rs. 1.50 lakh from the grant for renovation purposes. This includes expenses related to electrical fittings, internet facility, painting and whitewashing, arranging furniture, storage boxes, printing banners, and boards, among other relevant aspects of lab renovation. Schools are encouraged to refer to the specific guidelines provided by the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) for a comprehensive understanding of how the grant can be utilized for renovation needs.

Yes, the school is required to have a separate bank account specifically designated for the Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL). This bank account should be in the school’s name and must be with a nationalized bank or any bank equipped with a Core Banking Solution (CBS) facility. If the school already has an existing account in its name, it can be used for ATL funds. However, if the school esn’t have a bank account in its name, it is necessary to open a new bank account specifically for the ATL with the following naming format: “<Your School name as per NITI List + ATL GRANT>” (No abbreviation allowed). This account can be opened with either the State Bank of India or another nationalized bank or a bank with CBS.

For the Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL) grant, the preferable mode of transaction is through the Public Financial Management System (PFMS) at https://pfms.nic.in/. Schools with ATLs are advised to conduct all transactions related to the ATL grant using the PFMS system. It is recommended for schools to list their vendors on PFMS and utilize this method for payments and advances provided to them. Cash transactions are subject to an upper limit of Rs. 500, and appropriate cash vouchers and bills must be maintained for these transactions. Transactions exceeding Rs. 500 should be carried out via PFMS online transfer (PPA mode), and corresponding bills must be submitted. In cases where the Internet and PFMS system are unavailable, schools can use either a cheque or NEFT for transactions.

After obtaining the ATL grant, the school is required to follow a specific procedure for setting up the Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL) within three months of acquiring the grant and adhering to the guidelines. The steps include:

Equipment Procurement:

• Purchase equipment based on the ATL Equipment lists provided by NITI Aayog.
• The necessary equipment is categorized into four packages: P1 for Electronics Development, Robotics, Internet of Things, and Sensors; P2 for Rapid Prototyping Tools; P3 for Mechanical, Electrical, and Measurement tools; and P4 for Power Supply, Accessories, and Safety equipment.
• Schools can refer to the resources on http://aim.gov.in/resources.php to understand the components and equipment.

For Reference –

http://aim.gov.in/pdf/ATL-Equipment-Batch-of-60.pdf

http://aim.gov.in/pdf/ATL-Equipment-Batch-of-90.pdf

Vendor Selection:

• Schools can refer to the indicative list of vendors announced by NITI Aayog for equipment procurement. However, this list is neither exhaustive nor mandatory; schools have the flexibility to choose other sources based on their convenience, quality, and pricing.

Lab Setup and Inauguration:

• Arrange the procured equipment to make the ATL functional.
• Obligatory setup of the ATL, inauguration, and making it operational within the stipulated three-month timeframe.

The suggestive list of vendors is provided directly to all selected schools through email. The list is sent to the registered email id of the schools chosen for setting up an Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL). Schools can refer to the email communication for the suggestive list of vendors, which assists them in the procurement process for the required equipment and components for the ATL.

Yes, schools have the option to change their registered email ID. To initiate this change, the concerned school needs to send a formal email from their new email ID to atlhelp-niti@nic.in. In the email, they should request the change and provide a reason for the update. It’s important to mention the school name and unique ID in all such emails to facilitate the process of updating the registered email ID.

Yes, the Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL) is accessible to students and participants outside the school. If students from nearby schools or the community express interest in accessing the ATL or collaborating with the students of the host school, the school with the ATL must permit them to do so. Importantly, the schools are not allowed to charge anyone for accessing the ATL facilities. NGOs, have the opportunity to partner with a school that has an ATL. However, it’s crucial to note that no financial transactions of any kind are allowed from the ATL grant. This ensures transparency and adherence to the guidelines set by the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) for the utilization of ATL resources.

ATLs are required to adhere to specific guidelines regarding AIM branding. The guidelines are as follows:

ATL Banner Placement:

• Schools with ATLs must display the ATL banner outside the main gate of their premises and at the entrance of their ATL.
• The ATL banner can be downloaded from http://aim.gov.in/guidelines-for-school.php.

ATL Posters:

• Schools are obligated to put up ATL posters inside the lab.
• The ATL posters can be downloaded from http://aim.gov.in/guidelines-for-school.php.

Use of AIM Logo:

• AIM’s logo can be used on posters, banners, and standees created for intra and inter-school events related to ATL, such as ATL Tinkerfest, ATL Marathon, ATL mentor sessions, ATL School of the Month, ATL Community Day, ATL Hands-on workshops for students, and ATL Teacher Training Workshops.
• The logo can also be used on certificates given to students during these events.

Guidelines for Using AIM’s Logo:

• The logo must be prominently displayed with no interferences from other text or design.
• The dimensions of the logo must remain unchanged; the aspect ratio must not be distorted.
• The logo cannot be used as a watermark with text or any graphics over it.
• The logo must be displayed at the top-center of all banners, posters, standees, and other creatives. In the case of multiple logos, AIM’s logo may be displayed at the top right corner.
• Explicit permission from NITI Aayog is mandatory for any additional use.
• All files must be deleted once the work is complete to prevent unauthorized usage. The original recipient of the logo will be held accountable in case of misuse.

For further details, refer to http://www.aim.gov.in/.