Korba, June 08 2026: NTPC Korba successfully organized a two-day Role Model Programme and Space Science Workshop under its flagship Girl Empowerment Mission (GEM) 2026, reaffirming its commitment to nurturing scientific temper, leadership, confidence, and aspirations among young girls. The programme was conducted in collaboration with the Igniting Dreams of Young Minds (IDYM) Foundation, an ISRO-registered Space Tutor organization dedicated to promoting space education and innovation among students.
Designed around the theme “Inspire • Learn • Lead • Achieve”, the workshop provided participants with experiential learning opportunities in space science while enabling them to interact with distinguished achievers from India’s space and defence sectors.
Day 1: Exploring the World of Space Science and Rocketry
The programme commenced on 5 June with an engaging session on Space Science and Rocketry, where experts from IDYM Foundation introduced participants to the fascinating world of space exploration, satellite technology, launch vehicles, and rocket propulsion systems. The sessions also highlighted India’s remarkable achievements in the field of space research and innovation.
A specially curated Space Exhibition provided an interactive platform for the girls to learn about satellites, launch vehicles, and significant milestones of the Indian Space Programme. The exhibition generated immense curiosity and enthusiasm among the participants, encouraging them to explore future opportunities in science and technology.
One of the key attractions of the day was the Water Rocket Challenge, where participants designed, assembled, and launched water rockets under expert guidance. Through this hands-on activity, the girls gained practical understanding of scientific principles such as thrust, pressure, aerodynamics, and flight stability. The successful launches transformed classroom concepts into exciting real-world experiences, making learning both enjoyable and impactful.
Day 2: Learning from Inspiring Role Models
The second day featured highly motivating interactions with eminent personalities whose journeys have inspired countless young minds across the country.
Interaction with Smt. Anju Damodaran, Scientist, ISRO
The participants had the privilege of interacting with Smt. Anju Damodaran, Scientist at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). With over 28 years of experience in India’s space programme, she currently serves as Deputy Project Director – Spacecraft Integration and Head of Electrical Integration Section-II at U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC), Bengaluru.
Sharing insights from her remarkable professional journey, she spoke about her contributions to spacecraft integration, satellite assembly and testing, systems engineering, and various national satellite missions. Encouraging the girls to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), she emphasized the importance of curiosity, determination, and perseverance.
Addressing the participants, she remarked:
“Science has no gender. Curiosity, hard work, and perseverance can take you from a classroom to the stars.”
Interaction with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, AC, Indian Air Force Officer and Astronaut Pilot
Another major highlight of the programme was the inspiring interaction with Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, AC, Indian Air Force Officer and Astronaut Pilot of Axiom Mission-4.
Sharing experiences from his distinguished career in aviation and space exploration, Group Captain Shukla spoke about the importance of discipline, courage, resilience, and leadership in overcoming challenges and achieving excellence. He encouraged the girls to set ambitious goals and remain committed to continuous learning and self-improvement.
Motivating the young participants, he stated:
“Believe in your abilities. The sky is not the limit—space itself awaits those who dare to dream.”
Model Rocketry Workshop and Rocket Launch
On the second day, participants also took part in an intensive Model Rocketry Workshop, during which they designed and fabricated model rockets under expert supervision. The workshop culminated in the successful launch of the rockets in the august presence of Shri Kishore Chandra Patra, Business Unit Head, NTPC Korba.
Addressing the participants, Shri Patra appreciated their enthusiasm and encouraged them to cultivate scientific thinking, dream ambitiously, and pursue excellence in every sphere of life. The activity provided the girls with a unique opportunity to witness the practical application of scientific concepts while strengthening creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.
Empowering Future Leaders
The workshop successfully demonstrated the transformative impact of exposing young girls to scientific learning, innovation, and interactions with accomplished professionals. Through hands-on activities and inspiring role-model sessions, participants gained valuable insights into career opportunities in space science, technology, aviation, and national service.
The programme also reinforced key values such as confidence, self-belief, innovation, communication, leadership, and resilience. The girls were encouraged to challenge stereotypes, pursue higher education, and contribute meaningfully to society and nation-building.
The event concluded with the participants taking the GEM Pledge to dream big, learn continuously, lead with confidence, work diligently towards their goals, and contribute positively to society and the nation.
Through initiatives such as the Girl Empowerment Mission, NTPC Korba continues to create transformative opportunities for the holistic development of young girls, empowering them to become confident leaders, innovators, and responsible citizens of tomorrow.
“Today’s GEM Girl, Tomorrow’s Nation Builder.”
