YUVIKA: ISRO Young Scientist Programme Reaches 1,320 Students
Why in the news
The Union Minister told the Lok Sabha that 1,320 students have gained from YUVIKA so far. The programme is credited with building scientific temper and early interest in space among youth.
Key facts
- Full form: Yuva Vigyani Karyakram, meaning Young Scientist Programme, run by ISRO.
- Format: residential training at ISRO centres, learning from scientists directly.
- Beneficiaries: 1,320 students to date.
- Eligibility: students who completed Class 8 and are in Class 9.
- Rural quota: 15% seats for rural and remote-area students.
Selection basis
| Criterion | Detail |
|---|---|
| Academics | Shortlist using Class 8 marks |
| Quiz | Score in an online space science quiz |
| Extracurriculars | Science fairs and Olympiads carry weight |
Background
- Class 9 is seen as the stage when students start forming firm career goals, so ISRO hopes to build a pipeline of engineers and researchers for the space economy.
- Students use hands-on models and lab visits, including SDSC SHAR, Sriharikota, to see launch pads, satellites and mission control.
- Scientific temper is a way of life using observation, questioning, testing and logical analysis; it is mentioned in the Constitution.
Exam angle
- Organisation: ISRO; expansion: Yuva Vigyani Karyakram.
- Target group: Class 9; reservation: 15% rural and remote.
- Visit site named: SDSC SHAR, Sriharikota.