Rashtriya Avishkar Abhiyan

About

The Rashtriya Avishkar Abhiyan (RAA) was launched on 9 July 2015 by by Late Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Former President of India to encourage children in the 6–18 years age group to develop interest in Science, Mathematics and Technology (SMT). It was designed as a convergent framework linking school education with higher education, with an emphasis on learning through observation, experimentation, reasoning and innovation.

o   However, RAA is now supported under Samagra Shiksha, where it promotes science and mathematics learning through experiential activities, laboratories, competitions, technology and interaction with higher educational institutions.

Key Features

• RAA aims to develop scientific temper, curiosity, creativity and a spirit of inquiry among school children rather than limiting science and mathematics learning to textbooks and classroom instruction.
• The programme encourages children to learn Science, Mathematics and Technology through observation, experimentation, inference, model building, rational reasoning and testability.
• It creates a school–higher education institution linkage by encouraging institutions such as IITs, IISERs and NITs to mentor schools and support students in science and mathematics.
• The programme promotes Science and Mathematics exhibitions, quizzes, competitions, Olympiads and talent-search activities to provide students with opportunities to demonstrate their abilities.
• RAA supports the strengthening of school Science and Mathematics laboratories, along with the provision and effective use of science and mathematics kits.
• Students are encouraged to undertake exposure and study visits to higher educational institutions, research centres and other relevant organisations, helping them connect classroom learning with real-world applications.
• The initiative promotes the use of technology, digital models and teaching-learning materials to make Science and Mathematics more engaging and experiential.
• RAA also supports student clubs and competitions, creating a sustained environment for innovation and exploration beyond regular classroom teaching.

FAQs

1. What is Rashtriya Avishkar Abhiyan?
Ans: RAA is an initiative launched in 2015 to develop children’s interest in Science, Mathematics and Technology through experiential and inquiry-based learning.

2. What is the main objective of RAA?
Ans: Its main objective is to promote scientific temper, curiosity, creativity, experimentation and innovation among school students.

3. How does RAA connect schools with higher education institutions?
Ans: It encourages institutions such as IITs, IISERs and NITs to mentor schools and provide students with exposure to advanced scientific learning.

4. What activities are promoted under RAA?
Ans: RAA promotes science and mathematics exhibitions, quizzes, Olympiads, competitions, laboratory activities, study visits and experimentation-based learning.

5. How does RAA contribute to India’s education system?
Ans: It shifts learning from rote memorisation towards observation, experimentation, reasoning and innovation, thereby strengthening scientific thinking among students.