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Context

ISRO Announces Young Scientist Programme 2024 (YUVIKA).

Details

Objective

• Fostering Interest: Cultivate curiosity and interest in Space Science, Technology, and Applications among school children, especially in rural areas.
• STEM Promotion: Encourage students to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.

Eligibility

• Grade Level: Open to students who have completed 8th grade and are currently studying in 9th grade.
• Selection Criteria:
  • Academic Performance: Based on 8th-grade academic results.
  • Extracurricular Activities: Participation and achievements in extracurricular activities.
  • Rural Representation: Special consideration given to students from rural areas.
  • Priority for Younger Candidates: In case of a tie, preference given to younger applicants.

Participation and Selection Process

• National Representation: Three students from each state/Union Territory participate annually.
• Application and Selection: Students apply based on the eligibility criteria. Selection is made considering academic performance, extracurricular activities, and rural representation.
• Equal Opportunity: ISRO ensures representation from every region to provide equal opportunities to students nationwide.

Programme Structure

• Duration: A two-week residential programme.
• Content:
  • Classroom Training: Lectures covering Space Science, Technology, and Applications.
  • Practical Demonstrations: Hands-on activities including robotics, model rocketry, and CANSAT projects.
  • Interactions: Sessions with ISRO scientists for discussions and mentorship.
  • Facility Visits: Tours to ISRO facilities for practical exposure.
  • Sky Gazing: Observational sessions to experience celestial phenomena.
• Comprehensive Learning: Covering both theoretical and practical aspects of space science and technology.

Previous Successes

• Participation Statistics:
  • 2019: 111 students participated.
  • 2022: 153 students participated.
  • 2023: 337 students participated.
• Increasing Interest: Overwhelming response received for YUVIKA - 2023, with more than 1.25 lakh student registrations from across India.

Impact and Future Prospects

• Inspiring Future Scientists: Nurturing young talent and encouraging them to pursue careers in STEM fields.
• Nationwide Awareness: Spreading awareness about space science and technology among school students across the country.
• Potential Contributions: Preparing students to contribute to India's scientific advancements and space exploration efforts in the future.

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. YUVIKA plays a crucial role in nurturing the curiosity and talent of young students, paving the way for a brighter future in space science and technology for India. Comment. (15 marks)