Navi Mumbai Student Selected to Represent India at Global Youth Institute 2026 in the US

While many students focus on preparing for higher education, Nagappan N., a Class XII student of Reliance Foundation School, Koparkhairane, has earned an international academic opportunity by being selected to represent India at the Global Youth Institute (GYI) 2026, one of the world's leading youth platforms for food security and agricultural innovation.

Nagappan is among only 10 students from India chosen to participate in the programme, which will be held from October 20–22, 2026, in Des Moines, Iowa, USA. Organised by the World Food Prize Foundation, the institute brings together outstanding students from across the globe to present research, exchange ideas, and engage with internationally renowned scientists, policymakers, and World Food Prize Laureates.

Earned Through the Competitive NAAS-YUVA Selection Process

Nagappan secured his place after successfully clearing the highly competitive NAAS-YUVA (Youth United for Visionary Agriculture) Selection Drive conducted by the National Academy of Agricultural Sciences (NAAS).

The programme identifies talented young students with the potential to become future leaders in agriculture, sustainability, and food systems, providing them with the opportunity to represent India at the Global Youth Institute.

The selection process consisted of three rigorous stages:

Research Focused on Sustainable Agriculture

For the second stage of the selection, Nagappan presented his research paper, "Biotechnological Solutions for an Evergreen Revolution," which explored how millets can contribute to sustainable agriculture and global food security.

At the Global Youth Institute, he will present his research to an international audience while participating in discussions on innovative solutions to some of the world's most pressing agricultural and nutritional challenges.

Reflecting on his achievement, Nagappan said:

"Being selected for the GYI through NAAS-YUVA feels like a dream come true. Representing India at an international forum because of my passion for agriculture and interacting with global leaders in food systems and nutritional security is a marvellous opportunity. The entire selection process was challenging and thought-provoking. The distance between your dreams and reality is your passion and courage to reach for them."

Mentored Throughout the Journey

Nagappan was guided throughout the selection process by Dr. Usha Gangavarapu, Biology teacher at Reliance Foundation School. She supported him in identifying a globally relevant research topic, reviewing scientific literature, studying the work of leading agricultural research institutions, and refining his presentation skills.

Speaking about his achievement, Dr. Gangavarapu said:

"Nagappan's success is the result of his curiosity, perseverance, and genuine passion for scientific inquiry. Throughout this journey, he approached every stage with sincerity and an eagerness to learn. It was rewarding to mentor him as he explored contemporary research, examined the work of leading institutions, and developed practical solutions to a globally relevant challenge."

Representing India on a Global Stage

The Global Youth Institute provides students with a unique opportunity to collaborate with peers from around the world while engaging directly with experts working on global food security, agricultural innovation, and sustainable development.

Nagappan's selection not only highlights his academic excellence and research capabilities but also showcases the growing contribution of Indian school students to addressing global challenges through scientific inquiry and innovation.

Why This Matters

As climate change, food security, and sustainable agriculture become increasingly important global priorities, programmes like the Global Youth Institute are creating opportunities for young researchers to contribute meaningful solutions. Nagappan's achievement demonstrates how school-level research, guided mentorship, and interdisciplinary learning can prepare students to participate in international academic platforms while representing India on the global stage.

Editor's Note

Student research is increasingly moving beyond classrooms and science fairs to influence conversations on global challenges. Nagappan's selection for the Global Youth Institute reflects the growing importance of inquiry-based learning, mentorship, and real-world problem solving in school education. His journey illustrates how curiosity, scientific research, and perseverance can enable young learners to contribute meaningfully to issues that affect communities worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is Nagappan N.?
Nagappan N. is a Class XII student of Reliance Foundation School, Koparkhairane, Navi Mumbai, selected to represent India at the Global Youth Institute 2026.

2. What is the Global Youth Institute (GYI)?
The Global Youth Institute is an international programme organised by the World Food Prize Foundation that brings together students from around the world to discuss food security, agriculture, and global sustainability.

3. How many students from India were selected?
Only 10 students from India were selected through the NAAS-YUVA programme to participate in the Global Youth Institute 2026.

4. How did Nagappan qualify for the programme?
He successfully cleared the three-stage NAAS-YUVA Selection Drive, which included an online examination, a research paper presentation, and a personal interview.

5. What was Nagappan's research about?
His research paper, "Biotechnological Solutions for an Evergreen Revolution," explored the role of millets in promoting sustainable agriculture and strengthening food security.

6. When and where will the Global Youth Institute 2026 take place?
The programme will be held from October 20 to 22, 2026, in Des Moines, Iowa, United States.

7. Who mentored Nagappan during the selection process?
He was mentored by Dr. Usha Gangavarapu, Biology teacher at Reliance Foundation School.

8. Why is this achievement significant?
The selection recognises Nagappan's research excellence and provides him with an opportunity to represent India while collaborating with leading scientists, policymakers, and students from across the world on global food security challenges.