Quick answer
Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) are innovation workspaces in Indian schools set up under the Atal Innovation Mission at NITI Aayog. Students from Classes 6 to 12 use electronics, robotics kits, 3D printers, and tools to build projects. Earlier rounds gave selected schools up to Rs 20 lakh over five years, and Budget 2025-26 announced 50,000 more labs.
- ATLs are run under the Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog.
- They are meant for students in Classes 6 to 12.
- Earlier selected schools received up to Rs 20 lakh over five years.
- Budget 2025-26 announced 50,000 ATLs in government schools over five years.
What is inside an Atal Tinkering Lab?
- Electronics and sensor kits.
- Robotics kits and microcontroller boards.
- 3D printer.
- Hand and power tools.
- Computers for design and coding.
- Measurement and safety equipment.
The Atal Innovation Mission publishes indicative equipment lists for schools.
How can a school get an Atal Tinkering Lab?
- Check the call. Watch the Atal Innovation Mission website for open applications and eligibility.
- Prepare. Confirm space, internet, staff, and student numbers.
- Apply online. Submit the application and documents in the AIM portal.
- Selection. Selected schools sign an agreement and receive grants in instalments.
- Set up. Procure equipment, appoint an ATL in-charge, and report usage.
Eligibility, grant amounts, and procedures differ between rounds. Always follow the current AIM guidelines.
How should a school run its tinkering lab?
- Open the lab every week for every eligible class, not only for competitions.
- Train a lab in-charge and involve science, maths, and computer teachers.
- Start with simple projects, then move to student-designed problems.
- Link projects to real local problems such as water, waste, or traffic.
- Keep a project log and showcase work to parents and the community.
- Allow other nearby schools to use the lab, as AIM encourages.
What projects can students build in an ATL?
- An automatic plant watering system with a soil moisture sensor.
- A line-following robot.
- A smart dustbin that opens with a motion sensor.
- A weather station that logs temperature and humidity.
- 3D-printed assistive tools for classmates.
What administration does an ATL need?
- An equipment register and consumables stock.
- A lab timetable for classes.
- Usage reports and grant utilisation records.
- Safety rules and supervision records.
Lab equipment can be tracked in a school inventory system, and lab periods scheduled with the timetable tools.
Frequently asked questions
What is an Atal Tinkering Lab?
A school innovation workspace with tools and kits for students in Classes 6 to 12, under the Atal Innovation Mission.
Who runs the ATL scheme?
The Atal Innovation Mission at NITI Aayog.
How much is the ATL grant?
In earlier rounds, selected schools received up to Rs 20 lakh over five years. Check the current guidelines.
Can private schools apply for ATL?
Earlier rounds were open to government and private schools meeting criteria. The 2025 expansion focuses on government schools.
How many ATLs are planned?
Budget 2025-26 announced 50,000 ATLs in government schools over five years.
Which classes use the ATL?
Classes 6 to 12.
Do ATLs need a dedicated teacher?
Schools appoint an ATL in-charge, often a science, maths, or computer teacher, sometimes with a mentor.