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Venus is a very interesting planet,” said the ISRO Chairman, S. Somanath. “Studying its thick atmosphere and surface will help us understand planetary evolution better, and we invite India’s best young scientists to join us on this exciting journey.

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has issued an exciting Announcement of Opportunity (AO) inviting proposals from the Indian scientific community to use archival data for novel research in support of the forthcoming Venus Orbiter Mission (VOM). This is a major leap in India's space exploration plans as the VOM, due for launch in March 2028, is intended to study the planet Venus– the planet that's often referred to as Earth's "sister planet" because of many similarities but the dramatic differences. 

Why is This An Important Opportunity for Students and Researchers?

For students, young scientists and academic communities interested in planetary science, atmospheric studies and space technology, this AO offers a unique opportunity to become involved in-depth with the advanced planetary studies without the wait for new data. By using existing archival datasets on the morphology, atmosphere, ionosphere and solar interactions of Venus, aspiring researchers can add important insights that will inform the mission's scientific discoveries.

ISRO welcomes proposals from across India from university, national research, colleges and Government organizations. The selected projects will be funded for up to three years, including for computational facilities, research staffing and dissemination activities. Proposals need to be submitted by November 15, 2025, giving teams plenty of time to get prepared with their pioneering research plans.

What Research Areas Invited?

ISRO focuses on five main areas of research:

1. Venusian morphology and surface studies: investigation of geological and topographical features.
2. Geological mapping and mineralogy: comprehending composition at the surface
3. Atmospheric structure and composition: investigation of the dense Venusian atmosphere.
4. Ionosphere and solar wind interaction: studying the dynamics of charged particles.
5. Atmospheric and ionospheric modeling: modeling the environment of Venus.

Through these multidisciplinary disciplines, researchers can investigate critical questions about planetary evolution, atmospheric chemistry and planetary weather systems that differ starkly from Earth's. 

How can students prepare and get involved? 

Foster Interdisciplinary Skills

The AO emphasizes collaboration among geology, chemistry, physics, and data science. Students are encouraged to take classes and research projects in remote sensing, reconnaissance radar image analysis, and space instrumentation.

Use Existing Data

This is one of the few opportunities to tap into archival Venus data from past missions. Experience with big data tools and software for analysis of space science data is a plus.

Build Research Teams

Students can form research teams with senior scientists and faculty to submit joint proposals to become mentored and gain experience in funded planetary research.

Participate in Upcoming Workshops and Seminars

ISRO will conduct workshops throughout the duration of the AO project to disseminate results and promote community learning - ideal opportunities for students to network and share results.

Why is this a Milestone?

The Venus Orbiter Mission is a testament to India's growing presence in the field of space science. By understanding the solar-planetary particle interactions, the mission promises valuable cross-planetary comparisons that will help explain why Venus and Earth have evolved so differently, and also why Venus's atmosphere has become so inhospitable.

For Indian students and researchers, involvement in these preparatory AO research exchanges provides exposure to frontier science, encourages innovation, and places them at the center of planetary exploration activities worldwide.

Deadline to submit proposals: November 15, 2025

More info and proposal instructions: ISRO Venus AO official page 

This announcement by ISRO is a calling! Because this Announcement of Opportunity represents a transformative opportunity for Indian students and researchers to work on a pioneering planetary mission. Participating in this project will not only contribute to ground-breaking scientific discoveries, but also to invaluable experience, mentorship and career advancement opportunities in line with India's rising stature in global space exploration.

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Stalin added that Tamil Nadu also was willing to adopt the best schemes of Telangana. But he cautioned that Union-level efforts to derail the progress of the State would not succeed.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin accused the Union government on Thursday, September 25, of putting hurdles in the path of the State's education policy, even as a number of other States were looking to emulate its model.

Addressing Kalviyil Sirantha Tamil Nadu (Educationally Excellent Tamil Nadu) in Chennai, Stalin averred that the State's success in education had attracted the attention of the entire country. "Other States are emulating our efforts and implementing them. But the Union government, not being able to acknowledge our advancement, is attempting to stunt us," he added.

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, who attended the event, said that his government would implement the breakfast scheme for schoolchildren from the next academic year, following Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister's Breakfast Scheme.

"This scheme is touching; it benefits children of the poorest of families who go to school with an empty stomach. People of Tamil Nadu are fortunate because you have the best Chief Minister," he added.

He also appreciated other Tamil Nadu schemes such as Naan Mudhalvan, Pudhumai Penn, and Tamil Pudhalvan, and assured that his government had already rolled out Tamil Nadu's free bus travel for women under the Mahalakshmi scheme.

The Telangana CM also declared that he would set up a Sports University and academies with a Rs 500 crore corpus fund, as well as a Young India Skills University under a public-private partnership system to match training with employment.

He further added, "Tamil Nadu and Telangana must join hands to make sure India gets gold medals in the 2028 Olympics. If Narendra Modi and Amit Shah do not do their work, I will do it myself."

Stalin mentioned that attendance of students had improved following the implementation of the breakfast programme, and Pudhumai Penn and Tamil Pudhalvan had helped increase enrollment for higher education, with 75% of government school students completing Class XII now pursuing their studies in colleges.

1,878 government school students have gained admission to top higher educational institutions over the last four years, he added.

Stalin also added that Tamil Nadu also was ready to take on the most promising schemes from Telangana. However, he gave a warning that Union-level efforts at sabotaging the progress of the State would prove unsuccessful. "We must drive fear into those who, being unable to tolerate our growth, attempt to hinder us. Our schemes and accomplishments will do that," he added.

For decades the United State has been the dream destination for Indian Students looking to pursue higher education abroad. American universities like Harward,MIT,Stanford and UCLA were not justy educational institutions they were symbols of ambition,success and prestige.

But times are changing.More and more Indian students are now looking beyond the US and choosing destinations such as Canada,Germany, The UK, Australia and even countries in Asia and the Middle East.The global higher map is expanding and Indian students are right at the center of this shift.

So,what’s driving this change?

The Rising Cost of Education in the US- The US still offers world class education,but it comes at a price. Tuition fees,living expenses,healthcare and accommodation make studying in America extremely costly.

Average tuition : $30,000- $50,000 per year

Living Expenses- $15000- $20,000 per year

For many middle class families in India ,this is simply unaffordable especially when Canada, Germany or even France offers top ranked universities at much lower tuition costs in some cases,even free education like Germany’s  public universities.

Visa Challenges and Uncertainty Indian students are often concerned about :

• Long waiting time for US visas.
• Strict rules for work permits. 
• Uncertainty about permanent residency.

In contrast, Canada and Australia have introduced student- friendly visa policies, offering post study work permits and clear pathways to permanent residency. This makes them highly attractive for students who want to build a life abroad after studies.  

Better Return on Investment (ROI)

Students and parents today are more practical. They are asking Will the degree pay off? Countries like Germany and Canada have a much better ROI because of low fees and good job opportunities.Even the UK,despite being costly, offers 1 to 2 years of post study work visas making the investment more worthwhile.

Job opportunities and Immigration Pathways

Studying abroad is no longer just about getting a degree,it’s about securing a future.Canada.  offers an easy transiction  from student visas to permanent residency. Australia has extended post study opportunities in certain fields.Germany has a strong demand for engineers,IT professionals and skilled workers. The US on the other hand,still has H-1B visa uncertainties making students nervous about long term stability.

• Global Exposure and Diversity
• Studying in different countries gives students exposure to multicultural classrooms.
• Opportunities to learn new languages.
• Access to unique cultural experiences

For instance a student in Berlin experiences European culture and innovation while a student in Toronto grows in a diverse immigrant community.

Digital Media and Online Influence- Today’s generation is heavily influenced by Youtube Vloggers ,Instagrams reels,and Linkedin Stories. Indian students can see the success stories of their peers studying in Germany, Canada or Australia and feel inspired to explore new options. Social Media has widened horizons like never before.

What Should Students Do Next?

•  If you are planning to study abroad ,do the needful steps for sure
• Research Destinations- Don’t just limit yourself to the US. Compare programs in Canada,Germany and Australia.
• Calculate ROI- Check tuition fees,living costs and job opportunities. 
• Look at Visa & PR Policies- If you want to settle abroad, it is crucial.
• Apply Early for Scholarships- Many countries offer financial support for Indian students.

A World Full of Choices-

The United State is still an excellent option for higher education,but it is not the only option. Indian students today have the freedom to choose from a variety of countries that offer world class education affordability, cultural diversity and better job prospects.

The dream is no longer just about the American Degree.It is about global learning, financial stability and building a secure future.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday declared that 87 students have been chosen for the Viksit Delhi CM Internship Programme, which will start from Monday. The chosen students will be working closely with the Delhi government for three months and will be getting a monthly stipend of ₹20,000.

9,000 Applications, 87 Selections

The internship programme, as per the Chief Minister, received a mammoth response, with almost 9,000 students vying for a limited number of positions.It is a singular chance for them to see how the system functions from within," she added.

Who Can Apply?

The scheme is available for graduation and post-graduation students. Shortlisted fellows will work with the government for three months, engaging in policy research, data analysis, and field work. The monthly stipend of ₹20,000 is focused on making sure that students from different economic backgrounds can engage without strain. 

Focus on Transparency

Gupta also made a contrast with past internship practices, accusing past governments of employing such chances as means for political ends and bestowing financial gain on select individuals. "This time, the choice was strictly based on the basis of talent and merit. No political bias was involved," she stated.

Empowering Youth Through Governance

The Viksit Delhi CM Internship Programme is being viewed as Delhi government's bigger initiative to engage youth in governance and policy-making. Officials think that the program will not only offer useful experience to students but also enable the administration to gain from new ideas.

For the chosen interns, the next three months will be a stepping stone to public policy, administration, and governance. With competition being so stiff—87 selected out of 9,000—the programme has already created a benchmark for youth-led governance programmes.

In the journey every student faces countless challenges,self doubt and pressure to fit into a mold created by society.But in this race we often forget something important. Each one of us is born with the spark. A spark that can shine brightly if we polish ourselves with perseverance, purpose and passion. That’s why today we ask you not just to grow but to “Be the Diamond" ,rare, precious and unbreakable. Diamonds are not born perfect. They are formed deep beneath the earth under extreme pressure and intense heat. Just like that,life will test you,challenge you,and sometimes break you.But if you endure,you will shine.

The Journey of A Diamond - Born Under Pressure

Have you ever thought about how a diamond is formed? It starts as a simple piece of carbon.It’s not glamorous. It’s not shiny.But What time,under immense pressure and heat it transforms into one of the world’s most valuable gems. Similarly,every student is born with potential.You may feel like you are just a common stone ,unseen and ordinary. But your struggles,your hard days, your failures,these are your pressure.If you don’t run from them but face them,one day you will transform.

Never curse your challenges.Embrace them.They are shaping you into something rare.

Be Rare- Stand out in a World That Wants You to Fit in -

In today’s world,it is easy to be a copy.Social media,peer pressure and competition often make students feel they must be like everyone else to be successful. But diamonds are rare. They are not found everywhere. And that’s exactly what makes them special. You don’t have to be like everyone else to be successful.You don’t need the same journey grades, talents or goals. What you need is authenticity . Be proud of your individuality. Discover your uniqueness and nourish it. That’s how you become rare.

Start asking yourself  What makes me different? That’s your strength.

Be Precious, Know Your Worth Before The World Does

One of the saddest things is when students underestimate themselves. They don’t see their worth and wait for someone else to validate them as a teacher, parent friend or even social media followers. But a diamond does not become valuable when someone wears it.It is always valuable.You,too must realise your worth from within.Whether you are great at your studies or not whether you speak confidently or stay silent whether you come from a big city or a small village  your worth is not defined by others.It is defined by how you see yourself.

You are precious not because of what you do,but because of who you are.

Keep Growing Even Diamonds Need Care-

Even after a diamond is cut and polished it needs care.Dust can dull it. Similarly, your growth should never stop.

You Are the Diamond! Believe it , Live It

It’s not about becoming someone else.It’s about realising who is beneath fear,doubt and confusion.Every time you choose honesty over shortcuts,you shine. Everytime you try again after failing,you shine. Every time you help someone without expecting anything in return you shine.

You don’t need a spotlight. YOU ARE THE LIGHT.

The world does not need more noise. It needs more diamond students who know their worth, who rise under pressure, who reflect kindness and who never forget that even in darkness they can shine.

Be the Diamond.

Because the world needs you to shine.

In a time when ambition and independence can often take partners in divergent directions, a simple act by an Indian fitness coach is giving hope back to union. Kanav Vohra, an erstwhile legal professional who switched to being a fitness and nutrition coach, went public recently in an Instagram post where he disclosed that he relocated to Dublin, Ireland—not for career, not for travel—but to advance his wife's professional aspirations. The post went on to become viral, with netizens praising his unshakeable support.

A Journey That Begun With Belief

Kanav, who once quit a stable law career to start his fitness business, getfitwithkanav, gives credit to his wife Ritika Vij for supporting him during the times of uncertainty. In a previous post, he remembered how Ritika encouraged him when he didn't have any clients, no business plan, and only an idea. "She believed in GetFitWithKanav before it was even a name," he had written.

Flash forward to their second anniversary of marriage, and Kanav revealed how it was now his time to be there for her. "Now, it's her turn to shine. And my turn to be her biggest cheerleader!" he wrote, attaching a sentimental clip that showed the world about their life and love.

Why Ireland? Because of Her Dreams

The question that most were wondering—"Why did you relocate to Ireland?"—was answered in the video. Kanav's response was followed by a smiling photograph of Ritika with the caption: "Because of this woman and her big dreams."

Ritika, who went to college in Dublin and eventually got her dream job there, encouraged Kanav to follow. "She stood by me when I had no clients, no clarity, just a big dream and even bigger fears," he said. "Showing up for her? That's the easiest thing I've ever done."

Social Media Cheers On

The post resonated with people all over the world, having received more than four lakh views and loads of encouraging comments. One of the users commented, "Such a beautiful post! It's so heartening to see how grateful you and your wife are towards each other… It's indeed a blessing to have the people who support us and believe in us." Another added, "When two fortunate people find each other and form a beautiful demonstration of love."

To most, Kanav's decision was not just admirable—it was inspiring. "Love is being there for one another in the journey," one of his followers noted, sentiments expressed by thousands.

Kanav's anniversary message to Ritika also showed how their relationship flourishes based on empathy and shared aspirations. "Life with you has been nothing short of amazing. From laughing together to fighting over desserts, lifting each other through every high and low…" he wrote. "The best part of my story will always be you.".

In the world today, relationships are usually challenged by career demands and spatial distances. But Kanav's action of traveling across continents for his wife's dreams is an indication that love is not only a word—it's in action.