Is your child fascinated by space, rockets, and satellites? Do they dream of becoming an astronaut or a space scientist? If so, here’s an incredible opportunity! The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has opened registrations for YUVIKA 2025, its prestigious Young Scientist Programme, designed to give students hands-on exposure to space science and technology.
What is YUVIKA?
YUVIKA (YUva VIgyani KAryakram) is an exclusive educational initiative by ISRO, aimed at nurturing young minds and igniting their passion for space research. Targeted at students currently in Class 9, this programme introduces them to cutting-edge space technology, applications, and scientific advancements in an engaging and interactive way.
As part of ISRO’s ‘Catch Them Young’ mission, YUVIKA seeks to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The best part? ISRO fully sponsors the programme, covering accommodation, food, and study materials for all selected students.
Who Can Apply?
The programme is open to Class 9 students (as of 1 January 2025) studying in any school across India. Selection is based on a student’s academic performance and extracurricular achievements, with preference given to students from rural areas.
Important Dates to Remember
- Announcement of the programme: 24 February 2025
- Registration begins: 24 February 2025
- Registration closes: 23 March 2025
- First selection list announcement: 7 April 2025
- Reporting to ISRO centres: 18 May 2025 (or as notified by ISRO)
- Programme duration: 19 to 30 May 2025
- Send-off date: 31 May 2025
Selection Process: How Are Students Chosen?
ISRO will evaluate applicants based on multiple criteria to ensure a fair and merit-based selection process. The selection is weighted as follows:
- Class 8 academic performance: 50%
- Performance in ISRO’s Online Quiz: 10%
- Participation in Science Fairs (School/District/State/National level, past three years): 2-10%
- Rank in Olympiads (School/District/State/National level, past three years): 2-5%
- Winners in Sports Competitions (1st-3rd place at School/District/State/National level, past three years): 2-5%
- Participation in Scouts/Guides/NCC/NSS (past three years): 5%
- Students from Rural or Panchayat Area Schools: 15%
Where Will the Programme Take Place?
Selected students will visit one of ISRO’s prestigious research centres for an immersive learning experience. The seven ISRO centres hosting YUVIKA 2025 are:
- Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS), Dehradun
- Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), Thiruvananthapuram
- Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota
- UR Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), Bengaluru
- Space Applications Centre (SAC), Ahmedabad
- National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), Hyderabad
- North-Eastern Space Applications Centre (NE-SAC), Shillong
Travel & Expenses: Fully Sponsored by ISRO
ISRO will cover all expenses, including lodging, food, and study materials. Additionally, travel costs will be fully reimbursed, with students eligible for:
- Second AC train fare or AC Volvo bus fare (from their nearest railway station/bus terminal to the assigned ISRO centre and back).
- Reimbursement upon submission of original travel tickets.
How to Apply?
Parents, this is a golden opportunity to help your child take a giant leap toward a future in space science! Interested students must register online via ISRO’s official website before 23 March 2025.
For more details and registration, visit ISRO’s official website today. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!
Conclusion
The YUVIKA 2025 programme is an incredible initiative by ISRO to inspire and educate young minds about space science and technology. With hands-on training, expert guidance, and real-world exposure, students will gain invaluable insights into the fascinating world of space exploration. If your child has a passion for the cosmos, YUVIKA is the perfect platform to turn their dreams into reality!