10,000 Jashpur students to be screened, selected candidates to undergo specialised space training
TFP Bureau, Raipur, August 27, 2026: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai on Thursday launched the ‘Antariksh Sangwari’ astronaut training initiative at his camp office in Bagiya, aimed at introducing students to space science and fostering a scientific outlook.
The initiative, organised jointly by the Jashpur district administration and IDYM Foundation, will cover students from Classes 8 to 12 and give them an opportunity to learn about space science, space travel and astronaut training.
Appreciating the initiative, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai said Jashpur’s children have considerable talent and learning potential. Providing them with the right opportunities, guidance and access to modern scientific resources would help them advance in science, technology and innovation.
He added that the initiative would give students an opportunity to understand space science beyond their textbooks, nurture their curiosity and encourage them to consider careers in science, research and space technology.
Meanwhile, the programme is supported by Indian Air Force Group Captain and astronaut Shri Shubhanshu Shukla. Around 10,000 students from Classes 8 to 12 across all eight development blocks of Jashpur will be screened. Students with an aptitude and interest in space science will be selected through examinations, assessment and interviews held in different stages.
Registration for the programme will remain open until September 15, 2026. The examination will be held on September 26, followed by assessment and interviews from September 27 to 29.
Selected students will undergo specialised training in Raipur from October 1 to 7. The proposed Bengaluru visit will begin on October 15 and will include an opportunity to meet Shri Shubhanshu Shukla and hear about his experiences. The programme will conclude with an award ceremony on October 26.
Chief Minister’s Spouse Smt. Kaushalya Sai, Jashpur Collector Shri Rohit Vyas, Senior Superintendent of Police Dr Lal Umend Singh, District Panchayat Chief Executive Officer Shri Abhishek Kumar, members of self-help groups and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.
