Kashmiri Students Shine In Atal Innovation Mission Marathon

Kashmiri students are making significant strides in the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), demonstrating exceptional creativity and problem-solving skills in this year’s Atal Tinkering Marathon. Among the standout innovations is a sensor-based pill dispenser created by 17-year-old Toufig Showkat from Baramulla. This invention, born out of a personal experience, has impressed judges at the prestigious event, highlighting the growing talent in Jammu and Kashmir.

Two years ago, Toufig Showkat watched in frustration as his grandmother, a dementia patient, struggled with her medication. She often forgot where her pills were stored, leading to potential health risks. Determined to solve this issue, Toufig created a sensor-based pill dispenser that alerts users at the correct time and even dispenses medicine from an in-built chamber.

Spending months working on the project at the Atal Tinkering Lab in Fatehgarh, Baramulla, Toufig showcased his invention at the Atal Marathon in New Delhi, which ran from November 7, 2023, to January 26, 2024. His project is one of many innovative ideas emerging from the region, thanks to the Atal Tinkering Labs across India.

Students From Across India Participate In The Atal Tinkering Marathon

Each year, the Atal Tinkering Marathon attracts over 20,000 schools from across the country, aiming to foster curiosity, creativity, and imagination among young minds. With 10,000 tinkering labs established nationwide, the program encourages students to develop practical solutions to real-world challenges.

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Former Atal Innovation Mission director, Chintan Vaishnav, highlighted the impressive participation from schools in Jammu and Kashmir. In 2023, 1,627 teams from the region contributed to the 20,000 projects submitted nationwide. According to Vaishnav, students from Jammu and Kashmir are increasingly making their mark in the national competition, contributing innovative ideas that address pressing issues in their communities.

Toufig is not the only Kashmiri student addressing significant social challenges. Shahida Bano, an 18-year-old from Baramulla, developed a “biometric engine” to curb accidents caused by underage drivers. This invention links a driver’s biometric data to their Aadhaar card, ensuring that only those above the age of 18 can operate a vehicle. Shahida’s project reflects the commitment of young innovators from the region to creating solutions for societal problems.

A Bright Future For Kashmiri Innovators

As the Atal Tinkering Marathon continues to inspire young minds, Kashmiri students are proving their ability to compete on a national stage. With their groundbreaking inventions, they are setting a strong example for the next generation of innovators, not only in Kashmir but across the country.