PARLIAMENT QUESTION: SCHEME FOR ENCOURAGING SCIENCE TO GIRL STUDENTS

**Executive Summary** The Department of Science and Technology (DST) is implementing the Vigyan Jyoti programme to promote gender parity and encourage meritorious girls to pursue STEM careers. Since 2019-20, the initiative has benefited 1,12,600 girls across 34 States and Union Territories. This report, presented to the Lok Sabha on March 25, 2026, outlines the programme's activities and provides state-wise participation data up to March 19, 2026. **Key Points / Main Content** **Programme Overview and Objectives** * Launched in the 2019-20 academic year by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). * Aims to encourage high-achieving girl students to pursue higher education and careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). * Focuses on sustaining the talent pool in science and technology to achieve gender parity. **Core Activities and Initiatives** * Provides hands-on experiential learning sessions and career guidance workshops. * Facilitates direct interactions with scientific role models. * Organizes visits to industrial laboratories and Research & Development (R&D) centers. * Conducts specialized student-parent counseling sessions to increase inclination towards science. **Reach and Collaboration** * Currently covers 300 districts across 34 States and Union Territories. * Engages over 250 premier national institutions, including CSIR laboratories and universities, as knowledge partners. * Total beneficiaries reached since inception stand at 1,12,600 girls. **Participation Trends (2023-2026)** * State-wise data shows significant participation in states such as Uttar Pradesh (6,672 total), Maharashtra (5,008 total), and Gujarat (4,888 total). * Recent data for the 2025-26 period (up to March 19, 2026) indicates continued engagement across all Union Territories and States. **Impact Analysis** **Meritorious Girl Students** **Impact** Students receive critical exposure to STEM environments, mentorship from role models, and practical learning that increases their interest in scientific careers. **Action Required** Students must engage in year-round activities, workshops, and lab visits to maximize the benefits of the programme. **National Institutions (Universities and CSIR Laboratories)** **Impact** These institutions serve as vital knowledge partners, contributing to the mission of fostering female participation in science and technology. **Action Required** Collaborate with the DST to provide facilities, expertise, and mentorship for participating students. **Parents of Students** **Impact** Parents gain a better understanding of STEM career paths and opportunities through dedicated counseling sessions. **Action Required** Attend student-parent counseling sessions to support and encourage their daughters' pursuit of science-based higher education. **Department of Science and Technology (DST)** **Impact** The DST acts as the implementing body, monitoring the progress of gender parity initiatives and managing institutional partnerships. **Action Required** Continue to oversee the programme across the 300 districts and maintain engagement with the 250+ knowledge partners to ensure sustained impact.

Key Entities Referenced