Rajya Sabha briefed about Space orientation programmes introduced for school students

Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy and Space, Dr. Jitendra Singh today highlighted that the Government is systematically nurturing scientific temper among school students through inclusive and future-oriented initiatives like Yuva Vigyani Karyakram (YUVIKA), ensuring equitable access for rural, underprivileged, and aspiring young minds across the country.

Replying to supplementaries during Question Hour in the Rajya Sabha, in response to a starred question raised by Shri Ryaga Krishnaiah, along with supplementary questions by Shri Neeraj Dangi, Dr. Parmar Jashvantsinh Salamsinh, and Rajathi, the Minister elaborated on the design, reach, and impact of the YUVIKA programme.

Dr. Jitendra Singh informed that YUVIKA, launched in 2019, is a unique initiative aimed at “catching them young” by targeting students of Class 9 and exposing them to space science and technology at an early stage. He noted that the programme has been structured to ensure democratic and equitable participation, with 10 students selected from each State and 8 from each Union Territory annually, thereby maintaining balanced regional representation.(updated on 2nd April 2026)