Frontier Technology Labs (FTLs)

Source-This post on Frontier Technology Labs (FTLs) is based on article “Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog and Meta join hands to establish Frontier Technology Labs in schools” published in “PIB” on 6th March 2024.

Why in the News?

Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) under NITI Aayog and Meta have collaborated to set up Frontier Technology Labs (FTLs) in schools deemed strategically important.

This partnership aims to make frontier technologies accessible to everyone and encourage innovation among students.

What are Frontier Technology Labs (FTLs)?

1. About:
a. The FTL is an advanced version of the Atal Tinkering Lab, featuring cutting-edge infrastructure that includes all elements found within the Tinkering Lab.
b. It enables students to innovate using technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Augmented & Virtual Reality, Blockchain, Cybersecurity, Robotics, 3D Printing, and Internet of Things.

2. Component of Meta’s Education to Entrepreneurship initiative– The FTLs are a component of Meta’s Education to Entrepreneurship program, which started in September 2023.This initiative aims to connect students, youth, workers, and micro-entrepreneurs with advanced technologies, bringing digital skills to the grassroots level.

3. Funding– Meta will finance the FTLs

4. Knowledge Partner– Atal Innovation Mission

About Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL)

1. About– It is an initiative by the Atal Innovation Mission, NITI Aayog with the aim of establishing Atal Tinkering Laboratories (ATLs) in schools across India.

2. Objective- To foster curiosity, creativity and imagination in young minds; and inculcate skills such as design mindset, computational thinking, adaptive learning, physical computing etc.

3. Current Status– Till date, AIM has established 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) in schools across 722 districts throughout India.

What are frontier technologies?

1. About-It is defined as potentially disruptive technology that can address large-scale challenges. It is an intersection where radical forward-thinking and real-world implementation meet.

2. Examples–  AI, robotics, 3D printing, Internet of Things among others.

UPSC Syllabus- Science & Technology/ Schemes & Programmes