Over 1 Crore Students Participate in Viksit Bharat Buildathon 2025
New Delhi – In a remarkable display of creativity and innovation, over 1 crore students from Classes 6 to 12 participated in a two-hour live tinkering session as part of the Viksit Bharat Buildathon (VBB) 2025. This initiative, inaugurated by Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, aims to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem-solvers in India.
A Nationwide Collaborative Effort
The VBB 2025 is touted as India’s largest synchronized innovation hackathon for school students, with participation from more than 3 lakh schools across the country. Students formed teams of three to five, working collaboratively to ideate, design, and build prototypes centered around four key themes: “Vocal for Local,” “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India), “Swadeshi” (Indigenous), and “Samriddh Bharat” (Prosperous India). This initiative aligns with the broader vision of a developed India by 2047, as outlined by the government.
According to the Ministry of Education, Uttar Pradesh led the participation with students from 78,206 schools, followed by Maharashtra with 41,198 schools and Gujarat with 20,017 schools. This widespread engagement underscores the enthusiasm and potential of young minds across the nation.
Government Support and Vision
The VBB 2025 is a collaborative effort between the Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL) and NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission (AIM). The initiative aims to foster a culture of innovation among students, encouraging them to think critically and creatively about real-world challenges.
During the inaugural session, Minister Pradhan expressed his confidence in the students’ ability to generate innovative ideas that could address both domestic and global issues. “A Viksit and Samriddh Bharat will be built on the shoulders of our talented school students,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of nurturing young talent for the future.
Hands-On Learning Experience
Pradhan’s engagement with students extended beyond the inaugural session. He visited several schools, including Delhi Public School on Mathura Road and PM SHRI Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 2 in Delhi Cantt. During these visits, he interacted with students and teachers, observing a variety of innovative projects. Notably, he even participated in a Class 1 classroom, where he humorously claimed to “learn” the art of numbers from the young students.
Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Department of School Education and Literacy, highlighted the significance of this initiative in enhancing students’ learning capabilities. He noted that the VBB 2025 would strengthen the innovative approach among students, preparing them for future challenges.
A Competitive Edge
Schools participating in the VBB 2025 have until October 31 to submit their entries on the dedicated VBB portal. Following this, a panel of experts will evaluate the submissions from November 1 to December 31. The top teams will be recognized and rewarded in January 2026, with a total prize pool of ₹1 crore allocated for the most creative and impactful entries. This includes awards for 1,000 district-level, 100 state-level, and 10 national-level winners.
Historical Context and Future Implications
The Viksit Bharat Buildathon is not just a one-off event; it reflects a growing trend in India towards integrating innovation and entrepreneurship into the educational framework. Historically, India has been known for its rich tradition of knowledge and innovation, from ancient scholars to modern-day entrepreneurs. Initiatives like the VBB 2025 aim to rekindle this spirit, encouraging students to think outside the box and contribute to the nation’s development.
In comparison to global counterparts, India’s focus on fostering innovation at a young age is crucial. Countries like the United States and Germany have long emphasized STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, leading to significant advancements in technology and industry. By investing in the creative potential of its youth, India aims to position itself as a leader in innovation on the global stage.
Conclusion
The Viksit Bharat Buildathon 2025 represents a significant step towards nurturing a culture of innovation among Indian students. With over 1 crore participants, the initiative not only showcases the creativity of young minds but also aligns with the government’s vision for a developed India by 2047. As students engage in this collaborative effort, they are not just building prototypes; they are laying the groundwork for a brighter, more innovative future for the nation.
