This year, 13 Isha Vidhya contestants won a certificate and a cash prize of Rs.10,000 for their innovative ideas at INSPIRE-MANAK*, conducted by the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India. Competing at the national level against 11.47 lakh students, they were among 2,336 winners from Tamil Nadu. They will now utilize the prize money to create prototypes and advance to the next level of the competition. 

Read about their ideas below — each one a reflection of the empathy and drive to excel that Isha Vidhya cultivates in its students.

“Seeing an elderly neighbor struggle with a walking stick inspired me to find a solution that addresses the diverse mobility challenges the elderly face. My multi-purpose walking stick features an adjustable length for climbing stairs safely, a built-in folding seat, an LED light, a compact first-aid box, a pouch for small personal items, and a Bluetooth helpline button that sends emergency alerts.”

"My mother repeatedly injured her feet in our poorly lit cattle shed, and that drove me to find a solution. At night, the iron hooks used to tie cattle are nearly invisible — making accidents all too common. I developed a radium-plated hook that glows in the dark, making it clearly visible and helping prevent injuries."

"Observing children and elderly people get separated or lost in crowded places made me wonder how technology could help.The Care Band features a QR code or barcode that allows a rescuer to instantly access the wearer's personal details and contact their family or guardian — helping everyone feel a little safer."

"I designed this device to help wheelchair users contribute to keeping their surroundings clean — and in doing so, boost their sense of involvement and morale. A detachable cleaning attachment houses a sweeping brush that rotates as the wheelchair moves, collecting dust in a box beneath the seat. The fully coordinated, eco-friendly design requires no additional power source."

"Like many students, I've felt uncomfortable telling a teacher when I'm unwell.The Fever Badge solves this quietly. Worn like a school ID card, it contains a temperature sensor, a Bluetooth or wireless transmitter, and an LED display panel that turns red when a student is feverish — instantly alerting the teacher to attend to them."

"I wanted to solve the problem of small chalk pieces being discarded in classrooms.While standard chalk holders exist, I designed the 3D Chalk Buddy as a stackable, pen-like tool that holds chalk pieces securely. It provides a better grip, prevents breakage, eliminates wastage, and reduces chalk dust on hands. I printed it using affordable, eco-friendly PLA filament, and its replaceable cartridges ensure long-term use."

"Watching people use multiple cleaning tools — indoors and in public spaces — prompted me to design a smarter solution.The Modern Broomstick integrates several cleaning tools into one, simplifying the cleaning process while improving both hygiene and efficiency."

"I wanted to make public transport more accessible for the elderly and people with disabilities.My device features a small screen and two speakers that guide passengers to their bus stop or help them locate the correct bus. A synchronized notification on the bus itself alerts the driver when a passenger on that route is waiting to board. The Mystery of Bus Hunter enhances safety, comfort, and accessibility for those who most struggle with public transport."

* INSPIRE (Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research) Awards MANAK (Million Minds Augmenting National Aspirations and Knowledge)