Q. Atal Innovation Mission is set up under the (UPSC Prelims 2019)
Answer:
NITI Aayog
Notes: The correct answer is
[C] NITI Aayog. The
Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) is a flagship initiative launched by the Government of India to create and promote an ecosystem of innovation and entrepreneurship across the country.
- NITI Aayog (Correct): AIM was established under NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) in 2016. It serves as an umbrella structure that oversees various innovation programs, including Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) for schools and Atal Incubation Centres (AICs) for startups.
- Department of Science and Technology (Incorrect): While the DST manages many scientific research and development grants, the specific "Atal Innovation Mission" framework was designed to be a cross-sectoral initiative housed within the government's premier think tank, NITI Aayog.
- Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (Incorrect): This ministry focuses primarily on vocational training, apprenticeship, and skill standardisation rather than high-end innovation and incubation frameworks.
- Ministry of Labour and Employment (Incorrect): This ministry deals with labour laws, social security, and employment services; it has no functional link to the Atal Innovation Mission.
The mission's primary objectives include providing platform and collaboration opportunities for different stakeholders and creating awareness about the importance of innovation-driven entrepreneurship.