ISRO unveils 'Young Scientist' programme for students

The programme, announced on Tuesday, is primarily aimed at imparting basic knowledge on space science & technology and its applications to youngsters, with the intent of arousing their interest in the emerging areas of space activities so that they would take them up in the future.

The two-week programme, which is part of the government’s ‘Jai Vigyan’ vision, will begin during the summer holidays this year and will include guest talks, experience-sharing sessions with eminent scientists, facility and lab visits, exclusive sessions for discussion with experts, and practical and feedback sessions.

The training programme is also aimed at creating awareness among youngsters. The ISRO has chalked out this programme to “catch them young”, an official said.

Students across the CBSE, ICSE and State curriculum will be selected from every State and Union Territory to participate in the programme.

ISRO has planned the selection by inviting registration on its web portal. Those who have completed Class IX (in the academic year of 2018-19) and waiting to join Class X (or newly joined) will be eligible for registration. The selection is based on the applicant’s Class VIII academic performance and extracurricular activities.

Students hailing from rural areas have been given special priority in the selection criteria. In case there is a tie between selected candidates, the younger candidate will be given priority.

The list of the provisionally-selected candidates from each State will be announced on April 10. They will then have to send those attested copies of the relevant certificates sought for, via e-mail.

Expenses suffered by the student for travel, availing course material, and lodging during the course will be entirely borne by ISRO.