Barbil — A tale of pride is emerging from Keonjhar as 15-year-old Bhawani Bankula takes a significant step towards her dream of exploring space. A Class IX student at Saraswati Sishu Vidya Mandir in Katesahi, she has been selected as one of Odisha’s top 30 young astronomy talents in the Tata Steel Young Astronomer Talent Search (YATS) 2024, earning her a coveted opportunity to visit the prestigious ISRO facilities in Bengaluru.
Hailing from the modest village of Guali, Bhawani’s passion for astronomy led her to the heart of India’s space innovation at ISRO’s Telemetry Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) and the U.R. Rao Satellite Centre (URSC). During her visit, she not only witnessed satellite technology up close but also interacted with brilliant scientists, which solidified her dreams amidst rocket blueprints and real-time tracking stations.
“It was magical,” Bhawani shared, her eyes reflecting the galaxies she aspires to explore. “ISRO wasn’t just a place; it was a glimpse into my future.”
The educational tour, which took place from May 24 to May 28, was led by Smt. Urmiprava Maharana, Deputy Secretary of Odisha’s Department of Science & Technology and Director of the Pathani Samanta Planetarium, was accompanied by Tata Steel officials and proud guardians of the students.
To further inspire the group, they visited the Visvesvaraya Industrial and Technological Museum, which deepened their understanding of science through hands-on exhibits and historical marvels.
Naresh Chandra Mahanta, Principal of SSVM Katesahi, reflected on the impact of this initiative: “Tata Steel’s outreach is awakening the scientific spirit in our children, even in the most remote corners. With continued efforts like YATS, tomorrow’s scientists will emerge from villages like Guali.”
The 18th edition of YATS carried the exciting theme, “Will Space Be Your Next Travel Destination?” With over 71,000 students participating from across Odisha, Bhawani’s selection highlights her determination, intelligence, and the power of fostering young curiosity.
Since its launch in 2007, the YATS program has introduced 471,000 students to astronomy and space science, providing 230 winners with hands-on experiences at premier ISRO centres—all in honour of Odisha’s legendary astronomer, Pathani Samanta.
Bhawani’s journey from a curious classroom learner to an aspiring scientist at Bengaluru’s satellite labs is not just a reward; it’s a message to every young dreamer in rural Odisha: the stars are within reach when you aim high.
