Maharashtra may soon allow 51 school students to visit NASA in the United States under the Vidyarthi Vigyan Vari scheme. The plan awaits final government approval.
The initiative, launched in June 2025, aims to encourage scientific curiosity and reward students who show creativity in science projects. Minister Pankaj Bhoyar stated it recognises efforts beyond competition winners.
The scheme works in stages: 21 top tehsil-level projects visit local science centres, 51 district-level finalists visit ISRO Bengaluru, and 51 state-level winners travel to NASA. This multi-stage process motivates students across Maharashtra.
The primary goal is to inspire students to pursue science beyond the classroom. Prize money for state-level winners has increased from Rs 5,000 to Rs 51,000. Officials hope the scheme will become a model for other states, with updates on funding and selection expected soon.
