YUVIKA 2026 Program Details Released

Exam-Focused Notes on "YUVIKA 2026"

Program Overview:

• YUVIKA (Young Scientist Program): Aimed at promoting space science and technology among students.
• Duration: 11 to 22 May 2026.
• Locations: Conducted at nine ISRO centers:
  1. Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC)
  2. Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC SHAR)
  3. National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC)
  4. U.R. Rao Satellite Centre (URSC)
  5. Space Applications Centre (SAC)
  6. Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS)
  7. Northeast Space Applications Centre (NE-SAC)
  8. ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC)
  9. Regional Remote Sensing Centre (RRSC)

Participation:

• Participants: 456 talented students from 28 states and 8 Union Territories.
• Comparison: Increased from 350 students in the previous edition (conducted at 7 centers).

Activities and Learning:

• Experiential Learning:
  • Interaction with senior scientists and astronauts.
  • Lectures on space science and ISRO's achievements.
  • Observation of live launches (e.g., RH-200 rocket).
  • Direct communication with the team at India's Bharati Station in Antarctica.
  • Demonstrations of water rockets and basic robotics using programmable kits.
  • Assembly of Chandrayaan-3 DIY kits and model rocket construction and launch.
  • Sky observations using telescopes.

Selection Criteria:

• Merit-based Selection: Students are selected based on academic qualifications.
• Additional Preference: 15% extra preference for students from rural and remote areas.

Administrative Information:

• Ministerial Response: The details were provided by Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions, Atomic Energy, and Space, in a written response to the Lok Sabha.

Additional Notes:

• No Current Plans for Institutional Partnerships: There are no plans to expand the program through institutional partnerships at this time.

This structured overview captures the essential details of the YUVIKA 2026 program, highlighting its objectives, participation, activities, selection criteria, and administrative insights relevant for examination purposes.