New Delhi: The Education Ministry has rolled out the Seva First Innovation Challenge 2026, inviting students across schools, ITIs, polytechnics, colleges and universities to design practical solutions for real-world problems. With a prize pool of Rs 5.4 crore, the initiative aims to nurture young innovators and support national development.
Registrations opened on 25 September and will remain open until 24 October. The challenge is being conducted across five states: Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Telangana, and three Union Territories: Lakshadweep, Puducherry, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Who Can Apply
Entries are divided into three categories:
Junior: School students from Classes 6–12
Technical: ITI and polytechnic trainees
Open: Undergraduate, postgraduate students and research scholars
Students cannot apply individually. Institutions must nominate a coordinator to register and submit entries on behalf of participants.
Themes & Categories
Participants can submit ideas under five themes: (1) Swachh and Sustainable Bharat, (2) Samriddh Annadata, Samriddh Bharat, (3) Swasth and Samavesh Bharat, (4) Shikshit and Kaushal Bharat, and (5) Surakshit Bharat
Entries may be filed under Track A (products and technology)—covering devices, prototypes, software and engineering solutions—or Track B (business models, governance and service delivery innovations).
Application Process
Institutions must register via sevafirst.mic.gov.in, verify through official email, and then submit student details, problem statements and proposed solutions. School students may submit ideas without prototypes, while ITI/polytechnic participants must demonstrate working models. Undergraduate and research-level entries require prototypes or pilots with credible implementation plans.
Prize Money & Support
Awards in each category include:
First Prize: Rs 10 lakh
Second Prize: Rs 5 lakh
Third Prize: Rs 3 lakh
Beyond cash prizes, selected innovators will gain mentorship, lab and fabrication access, incubation support, and potential adoption by government or industry.
State-level screenings will begin from 25 October, followed by exhibitions and the national finale scheduled between November and December 2026.