New Delhi | 10 November 2026
The Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, has opened registration for Phase VII of the Vigyan Jyoti Programme for the academic session 2026–27. The initiative aims to encourage meritorious girl students to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
The registration portal became operational on 28 July 2026. The programme is designed to provide schoolgirls with opportunities for scientific exposure, mentoring, career guidance and interaction with successful women scientists and professionals.
The initiative is particularly significant for Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas (JNVs), which serve as important knowledge centres under the programme. Through their participation, Navodaya schools help extend STEM learning opportunities to girls from nearby government schools.
About the Vigyan Jyoti Programme
Vigyan Jyoti is a flagship initiative of the Department of Science and Technology, launched in December 2019 to address the underrepresentation of women in STEM fields.
The programme focuses on talented girl students from Classes 9 to 12, particularly those belonging to rural and underserved regions. Its objective is to build confidence among students and encourage them to pursue higher education and professional careers in science and technology.
The initiative provides structured support through science workshops, mentoring, career counselling, educational visits and interactions with women professionals working in scientific and technical fields.
Phase VII: Registration and Programme Details
The seventh phase of the programme covers the 2026–27 academic session. Participating schools are encouraged to identify eligible students and complete their registration through the prescribed programme process.
The important details are as follows:
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | Vigyan Jyoti |
| Implementing Department | Department of Science and Technology |
| Phase | Phase VII |
| Academic Session | 2026–27 |
| Registration Opening Date | 28 July 2026 |
| Target Group | Meritorious girl students |
| Classes Covered | Classes 9 to 12 |
| Implementing Partners | NVS and KVS |
| Official Portal | vigyanjyoti.dst.gov.in |
The programme is implemented in collaboration with Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti and Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan.
It is important to note that Vigyan Jyoti is a school-coordinated educational initiative rather than a general open admission or individual scholarship application.
Role of Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti
Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti plays an important role in implementing the programme through its network of Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalayas.
Designated JNVs function as knowledge centres and facilitate activities for participating students. These schools also help connect girls from neighbouring government schools with scientific institutions, mentors and learning opportunities.
The collaboration helps students from rural areas gain exposure to scientific developments and career opportunities that may otherwise be difficult to access.
Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan is another important implementing partner in the initiative.
Major Activities Under Vigyan Jyoti
The programme focuses on experiential learning and professional exposure through several activities.
Science Camps and Workshops: Students participate in scientific experiments, demonstrations and practical learning sessions to develop interest in science and technology.
Interaction with Women Scientists: Students get opportunities to interact with women scientists, engineers, researchers and other professionals who share their career experiences and motivate young learners.
Visits to Scientific Institutions: Educational visits to IITs, IISERs, NITs, CSIR laboratories, universities and research institutions provide exposure to advanced scientific facilities and research environments.
Tinkering and Innovation Activities: Hands-on workshops, science exhibitions and innovation activities encourage creativity, problem-solving and practical application of scientific concepts.
Career Counselling and Mentoring: Students receive guidance about higher education, competitive examinations and career opportunities in STEM disciplines.
Vigyan Jyoti Programme: Key Statistics
The official Vigyan Jyoti portal displays significant programme activity figures, including:
| Programme Activity | Reported Number |
|---|---|
| Students | 102,976 |
| Science Camps | 633 |
| Role-model Interactions and Special Classes | 1,199 |
| Counselling Sessions | 1,224 |
| Knowledge Partner Visits | 323 |
| Tinkering Workshops and Exhibitions | 121 |
These figures represent the programme statistics displayed on the official portal and should not be interpreted as Phase VII-specific achievements.
Separately, the Department of Science and Technology informed Parliament in March 2026 that the programme had benefited 1,12,600 meritorious girls across 300 districts in 34 States and Union Territories since its inception.
Opportunities in Science and Technology
Vigyan Jyoti encourages students to explore a broad range of academic and professional opportunities, including engineering, medicine, basic sciences, mathematics, artificial intelligence, research and development, and emerging technologies.
By providing access to mentors, scientific institutions and practical learning experiences, the programme seeks to help students make informed educational choices and develop confidence in pursuing technical careers.
The initiative also contributes to India’s broader objective of increasing women’s participation in scientific research, innovation and the technology sector.
How Can Students Participate?
Interested students and parents should contact their respective school Principals or designated Vigyan Jyoti coordinators to understand the eligibility requirements and registration process.
Participating schools identify eligible students and facilitate registration in accordance with the programme guidelines. Students should also enquire about upcoming science camps, workshops, mentoring sessions and other programme activities.
Conclusion
The opening of Phase VII registration for Vigyan Jyoti marks another step towards strengthening girls’ participation in science and technology education in India.
The collaboration between the Department of Science and Technology, Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti and Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan provides an important platform for students to learn beyond traditional classrooms through scientific exposure, mentorship and professional interaction.
With its focus on rural talent development and women in STEM, Vigyan Jyoti can play a meaningful role in developing the next generation of women scientists, engineers, researchers and technology leaders.
The Worldonomics Times – Education News Desk
Official Website: https://vigyanjyoti.dst.gov.in/
Sources: Department of Science and Technology, Government of India; Vigyan Jyoti Official Portal; Ministry of Education.
Editorial Note: Programme statistics are cumulative portal-displayed figures, not Phase VII-only results. Students should verify participation and eligibility requirements with their respective schools.
