Jammu student Akshara Sudan’s journey through ISRO’s YUVIKA-2024: A year later, the experience still inspires

JAMMU: Last year, I (Akshara Sudan, P.M. Shri K.V. Miran Sahib Jammu, Jammu & Kashmir) was fortunate to be selected for YUVIKA-2024 (Yuva Vigyan Karyakram), a flagship initiative of ISRO and the Government of India aimed at nurturing young minds towards science and space exploration. Out of 350 students chosen from across the country, only 8 students represented Jammu & Kashmir, including 3 from the Jammu division—and I was proud to be one of them.

My training centre was the Indian Institute of Remote Sensing (IIRS), Dehradun, where this transformative journey began. The programme was designed to inspire us with a blend of science, innovation, and life skills. Each morning started with yoga sessions and swimming classes, grounding us with discipline and health.

Our daytime lectures were delivered by some of the brightest minds of ISRO, and in the evenings, we balanced learning with badminton matches and cultural activities.

One of the most unforgettable moments was our interaction with ISRO Chairman, Shri S. Somnath Sir, whose words continue to inspire me. Beyond lectures, the programme emphasised hands-on experience:

• We built remote control cars and launched rockets using water and charcoal propellants.
• We tracked NASA’s NOAA-15 satellite and even launched a weather balloon.
• Field visits enriched our learning, from birdwatching at the Survey of India and exploring the Forest Research Institute (FRI), to trekking through the scenic beauty of Mussoorie.

Each session was like unlocking a treasure chest of knowledge. We weren’t just students learning about the universe—we felt like young explorers, ready to push the boundaries of human understanding.

At the end of the programme, I realised that YUVIKA was not only about science; it was about overall development, teamwork, curiosity, and the spirit of innovation.

I sincerely thank ISRO, my mentors, and everyone involved in making this journey unforgettable. YUVIKA has not just taught me about the cosmos but also about dreaming big and working hard to achieve those dreams.