Mayank Golechha from Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani, has won the Viasat: Space for Good India Challenge 2025 with his project MagnoSat. His concept involves using electromagnetic rings in different orbits to accelerate satellites without relying on traditional fuel.
The competition, organized by Viasat, aims to encourage university students in India to use space technology for practical solutions and to inspire future leaders in the space and telecom sectors. The event follows similar initiatives previously held in the UK and US.
In a video message, Shri Jyotiraditya M. Scindia, Minister of Communications and Development of North Eastern Region, stated, “Space—the final frontier—is now within mankind’s reach. You, the budding entrepreneurs with your wonderful ideas and platforms, are bringing space much closer to us through agriculture, education and more. Congratulations to all participants and may you move from strength to strength and lead India’s flag as we move on to become a developed nation.”
Golechha will receive a first prize of ₹400,000. Second place went to Bhoomi Raiyani from Nirma University for her ‘Plasma Pathways’ project focused on future space communication concepts. Third place was awarded to Arunteja Jarupula from IIT Kanpur for ‘STELLAR’, a proposal for orbital settlements serving as manufacturing hubs. They will receive ₹250,000 and ₹100,000 respectively.
Reflecting on his achievement, Golechha said,“I am deeply honored to be recognized by Viasat for the Space for Good challenge. This opportunity has not only encouraged me to push the boundaries of my creativity and technical skills but also reinforced my belief in the power of space technology to create sustainable solutions for life on Earth. I hope my project inspires others to explore innovative ideas that contribute to building a better future for our planet and humanity.”
Gautam Sharma, Managing Director of Viasat India remarked,“We are thrilled to witness the incredible ingenuity and passion showcased by young minds in India through the Viasat: Space for Good 2025 initiative. This competition is a testament to the vibrant innovation ecosystem here and the critical role that space technology can play in solving real-world challenges. At Viasat, we are proud to support and nurture these future leaders who are driving sustainable advancements in space that will benefit not only India but the entire world.”
Anil Kumar Bhardwaj from the Department of Telecommunications concluded,”We are living in a very happy time for young innovators willing to solve problems. With strong support from government and industry, including companies like Viasat, the youth of today have the opportunity to take their ideas from concept to reality, especially in space and telecommunications. The ecosystem is vibrant, funds are available and the government is ready to back India-centric solutions that will transform connectivity and bring sustainable advancements.”
The jury included experts such as Dr. Vinod Kumar (IN-SPACe), Revathi Mannepalli (Ministry of Communications), Lt. Gen. AK Bhatt (Indian Space Association), Col. Ashwini Bhardwaj (Ministry of External Affairs), Pawan Chandana (Skyroot Aerospace), Prabhat Dikshit (Department of Telecommunications), Ramesh Soundararajan (Viasat), and Sonali Nanda (IN-SPACe).
Five other finalists—Abirami Vanniarajan (SASTRA), Priyam Ganguli (Thapar Institute), Aditya Kumar (Kalinga Institute), Jagdish Nahak (Amity University), Aryan Shirke (Kalinga Institute)—will join three additional online mentor sessions hosted by Viasat over six months focusing on STEM career guidance.
The event also featured keynotes discussing youth perspectives on India’s growing space sector along with panel discussions involving industry professionals.
