YUVIKA 2025: ISRO Opens Registration for Young Scientist Programme, Apply by March 23

Young Scientists Programme YUVIKA 2023 | Image Credits: ISRO

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced the Young Scientist Programme, Yuva Vigyani Karyakram (YUVIKA 2025), for Class 9 students. This initiative aims to introduce young students to space science and technology. The programme will be conducted as a two-week residential course across seven ISRO centres. Registration will begin on February 24, 2025, and will close on March 23, 2025.

The selection list will be released on April 7, 2025, and selected students will be required to report to the assigned ISRO centres on May 18, 2025, or as notified. The programme itself will run from May 19 to May 30, 2025, with students departing from the centres on May 31, 2025.

Selection Criteria

Students applying for the programme must meet certain eligibility requirements. Academic performance in Class 8 will be considered, with a minimum of 50% marks required. Additionally, students will need to participate in an online quiz, which will contribute 10% to their overall evaluation.

Participation in science fairs and competitions at the school (2%), district (5%), or state and above level (10%) in the last three years will also be taken into account. Performance in Olympiads, as well as rankings in sports competitions at various levels, will contribute additional weightage. Students who have been members of Scouts and Guides, NCC, or NSS in the last three years will receive 5% weightage. Those studying in rural schools located in Panchayat areas will receive 15% weightage.

To ensure representation from across the country, ISRO has planned the programme at seven locations: Dehradun, Thiruvananthapuram, Sriharikota, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad, and Shillong.

Programme Details

ISRO has designed YUVIKA 2025 to provide students with knowledge of space technology, space science, and space applications. The objective is to inspire young minds and encourage them to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The programme follows the theme of ‘Catch them young’, focusing on engaging students early in space-related studies.

All expenses related to travel, lodging, boarding, and course materials will be covered by ISRO. Students interested in the programme must complete the registration process before March 23, 2025. Further details, including the selection process and application procedure, will be available on ISRO’s official website.