In the quiet, scenic landscapes of Arunachal Pradesh, where mountains touch the sky and rivers carve their way through valleys, three young students have taken a giant leap toward the stars. Their journey from classrooms in remote districts to being selected for one of India’s most prestigious science programmes is nothing short of inspiring.

Geyon Talom from Upper Siang, Lukshmi Sikom from Upper Subansiri, and Jennifer Neri from East Kameng have been selected for YUVIKA 2026. 

Their achievement is not just a personal milestone but a proud moment for the entire state, showcasing the rising passion for science among young minds in the region.

What Makes YUVIKA So Special

Organised by the Indian Space Research Organisation, YUVIKA, short for YUva VIgyani KAryakram, is designed to nurture curiosity and scientific thinking among school students. The programme aims to “catch them young,” encouraging students to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Scheduled to take place over two weeks in May, the residential programme offers a unique opportunity for students who have completed Class 9. It is not just about learning from books; it is about experiencing science in action. Participants get to visit advanced space research centres, interact with top scientists, and engage in hands-on activities such as building model rockets and understanding satellite technology. For many students, it is their first close encounter with the world of space exploration.

A Journey Built on Dedication and Passion

The selection process for YUVIKA is highly competitive. It evaluates not only academic performance but also curiosity, participation in science activities, and overall enthusiasm for learning. With weightage given to Class 8 marks, online quizzes, and extracurricular achievements, only the most dedicated students make it through. For Geyon, Lukshmi, and Jennifer, this selection is the result of consistent effort and a genuine love for science. Studying in schools like Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas and Vivekananda Kendra Vidyalaya, they have shown that excellence is not limited by geography. Their journey reflects countless hours of study, participation in school activities, and a willingness to go beyond textbooks. It is this combination of curiosity and commitment that has brought them to this remarkable stage.

From Classrooms to Space Centres

What awaits these students is an experience that could shape their future. At ISRO centres such as Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Satish Dhawan Space Centre, and Space Applications Centre, they will step into an environment where science comes alive. Here, they will witness how rockets are designed, how satellites function, and how space missions are planned. They will listen to scientists who have contributed to some of India’s most significant achievements in space exploration. For a young student, such exposure can be life-changing. It transforms abstract concepts into real-world understanding and inspires dreams that once seemed distant.

Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Others

What makes this achievement even more powerful is the background these students come from. Arunachal Pradesh, with its remote geography and limited access to advanced facilities, often faces challenges in providing opportunities. Yet, these three students have proven that talent and determination can overcome any barrier. Their success sends a strong message that no dream is too big, no matter where you come from. Their journey is especially inspiring for other young girls in the region. It shows that science is not limited to cities or elite institutions; it belongs to anyone who is willing to learn and explore.

A Step Toward India’s Scientific Future

India’s future in science and technology depends on nurturing young talent. Programmes like YUVIKA play a crucial role in identifying and guiding students who have the potential to contribute to the nation’s progress. As Geyon, Lukshmi, and Jennifer prepare to embark on this journey, they carry with them not just their own dreams but also the aspirations of their communities. They represent a new generation of thinkers, innovators, and explorers. 

As the world looks toward space for new discoveries and opportunities, stories like these remind us where it all begins in classrooms, in curiosity, and in the courage to dream. From the hills of Arunachal Pradesh to the advanced laboratories of ISRO, this journey is a beautiful example of how determination and opportunity can come together to create something extraordinary. And for these three young students, this is just the beginning. The sky is not the limit anymore it is only the starting point.