The YUVA Scheme (Young, Upcoming, and Versatile Authors) is a visionary initiative launched by the Ministry of Education in India. The program is implemented by the National Book Trust (NBT) with the primary aim of promoting reading, writing, and book culture in the country.
What is the YUVA Scheme for Young Authors?
The YUVA scheme provides young writers, below 30 years of age, with mentorship, training, financial assistance, and exposure to the literary ecosystem to help them develop and publish their work.
The scheme focuses on nurturing literary talent while projecting Indian literature and cultural heritage globally. Its core objectives are aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes empowering young minds and preparing future leaders.
Why was the YUVA Scheme Launched?
The YUVA Scheme was launched in 2021 to address several challenges and opportunities in the Indian literary space:
- Promoting Reading and Writing Culture: The scheme seeks to encourage young people to take up reading and writing as professional and meaningful pursuits.
- Empowering Young Authors: By providing mentorship and financial support, the scheme ensures that talented young writers are guided and recognized.
- Cultural Representation: YUVA aims to showcase India’s rich heritage, literature, and cultural diversity both nationally and internationally.
- Global Recognition: It offers young authors opportunities to participate in international literary festivals, book fairs, and cultural exchange programs.
- Post-COVID Mental Support: By engaging youth in creative writing, the scheme provides a positive psychological boost to overcome the mental health challenges exacerbated by the pandemic.
Who Can Apply for the YUVA Scheme?
The scheme is primarily targeted at young Indian authors below the age of 30. For previous iterations (YUVA 2.0), this limit was expanded to 35 years, but the current YUVA 3.0 focuses on the under-30 age group. Eligible candidates must have a passion for literature and a desire to contribute to Indian writing and culture.
What are the differences between YUVA 1.0, YUVA 2.0, and YUVA 3.0?
The differences between YUVA 1.0, YUVA 2.0, and YUVA 3.0 are as follows:
| Feature | YUVA 1.0 | YUVA 2.0 | YUVA 3.0 |
| Launch Year | 2021 | 2023 | 2025 (March) |
| Objective | Introduce young authors to mentorship and promote reading/writing | Expand support for emerging writers and strengthen mentorship | Focus on thematic, nation-building literature; global projection of Indian heritage |
| Age Limit | Below 30 years | Below 35 years | Below 30 years |
| Number of Authors | 75 authors per cycle | 75 authors per cycle | 75 authors per cycle |
| Duration of Mentorship | 6 months | 6 months | 6 months |
| Themes | General literary works promoting Indian literature and culture | Encouraging broader literary talent, including diverse genres | Contribution of Indian Diaspora, Indian Knowledge System, Makers of Modern India (1950–2025) |
| Financial Support | ₹50,000/month scholarship | ₹50,000/month scholarship | ₹50,000/month scholarship |
| Publication & Promotion | Books published by NBT, limited translation | Books published by NBT, some translations | Books published by NBT, translated into multiple Indian languages under Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat |
| Global Exposure | Limited exposure at literary events | Increased international exposure and promotion | Strong focus on global literary presence at international events, book fairs, and festivals |
| Mentorship | Guidance by eminent authors | More structured mentorship with editors and experts | Mentorship includes historians, constitutional experts, and renowned authors for thematic guidance |
How does the Application and Selection Process Work?
The details of the application and selection process are as follows:
| Step | Details | Key Points |
| Step 1: Application | Aspiring authors submit their application via MyGov India portal | – Book proposal (~10,000 words) – Personal details and brief biography – Previous publications or writing experience (if any) |
| Step 2: Initial Screening | Applications reviewed by a panel of National Book Trust experts | – Originality and creativity – Literary quality – Potential for publication |
| Step 3: Shortlisting | Candidates meeting evaluation criteria are shortlisted | – Shortlisted candidates move to mentorship program |
| Step 4: Mentorship and Evaluation | Six-month mentorship guided by experts | – Mentors include renowned authors, historians, constitutional experts, and literary professionals – Includes workshops, skill development sessions, and exposure to the Indian literary ecosystem |
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What is the Structure of the YUVA Mentorship Program?
The YUVA scheme is implemented in two main phases:
Phase 1: Training
- Duration: Three months
- Conducted by: National Book Trust
- Focus: Skill development, writing techniques, and creative training
- Interaction with experienced authors, mentors, and editors
Phase 2: Promotion
- Authors gain exposure at literary festivals, book fairs, virtual events, and international forums
- Published works receive promotion and recognition
- Books may be translated into multiple Indian languages under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat initiative
- Authors receive 10% royalties on book sales
What Financial Support does the YUVA Scheme Offer?
Each selected author receives:
- A consolidated scholarship of ₹50,000 per month for six months
- Financial support to focus entirely on their literary work
- Recognition of their talent while reducing economic barriers to pursuing literature
What Themes does YUVA 3.0 Focus On?
The latest iteration of the scheme, YUVA 3.0, emphasizes themes of national significance:
- Contribution of the Indian Diaspora in Nation-Building
- Indian Knowledge System
- Makers of Modern India (1950–2025)
These themes aim to inspire young authors to explore India’s history, culture, and intellectual traditions through their writing.
What are the Features of the YUVA Scheme?
The YUVA scheme offers several distinctive features:
- Selective Process: Ensures merit-based selection through an All India Contest on the MyGov platform
- Scholarship Support: Monthly financial aid of ₹50,000 for six months
- Dual Objectives: Encourages writing as a profession and promotes mental well-being post-pandemic
- Publication & Promotion: Works are published by NBT and promoted nationally and internationally
- Global Exposure: Participation in international literary events, cultural exchanges, and book fairs
- Royalties: Authors receive 10% of the revenue from book sales
What are the Outcomes and Advantages of the Scheme?
The outcomes and advantages of the scheme are as follows:
| Aspect | Outcomes of YUVA Scheme | Advantages of YUVA Yojana |
| Skill Development | Young authors develop their skills and literary potential (Talent Nurturing) | Mentorship from renowned authors improves writing skills (Literary Development) |
| Impact on Indian Literature | Promotes diverse voices and genres (Enrichment of Indian Literature) | NBT publishes and promotes authors’ works, often translated (Publication Opportunities) |
| Global Exposure | Showcases Indian literary talent on international platforms (Global Representation) | Exposure at international literary events broadens perspectives (Global Recognition) |
| Cultural Impact | Encourages reading and writing across India (Promotion of Book Culture) | Encourages authors to showcase India’s heritage and knowledge systems (Cultural Representation) |
| Psychological/Mental Benefits | Provides constructive engagement and confidence-building for young minds (Psychological Benefits) | Scholarship allows authors to focus entirely on their work (Financial Support) |
How Has YUVA Evolved Over Time?
- YUVA 1.0 (2021): Launched with a focus on authors under 30 years
- YUVA 2.0 (2023): Expanded to include authors up to 35 years, with stronger mentorship
- YUVA 3.0 (2025): Reintroduced focus on authors under 30 with national themes and global outreach
Key Takeaways
| Feature | Details |
| Full Form | Young, Upcoming and Versatile Authors |
| Launch Year | 2021 |
| Implementing Agency | National Book Trust (NBT) |
| Target Group | Young Indian authors below 30 years |
| Scholarship | ₹50,000 per month for 6 months |
| Mentorship Duration | 6 months |
| Phases | Phase 1: Training; Phase 2: Promotion |
| Book Publication | By NBT, translated into multiple languages |
| Themes (YUVA 3.0) | Indian Diaspora, Indian Knowledge System, Makers of Modern India |
| Global Exposure | Literary festivals, book fairs, cultural exchange programs |
| Royalties | 10% from book sales |
Also Read:
Questions Based on YUVA Scheme
1. What does YUVA stand for?
A) Young United Voices of Authors
B) Young, Upcoming and Versatile Authors
C) Young University for Various Arts
D) Young Unique Visionary Authors
E) Young Unified Vision Authors
Answer: B
2. Which ministry implements the YUVA Scheme?
A) Ministry of Culture
B) Ministry of Information & Broadcasting
C) Ministry of Education
D) Ministry of Youth Affairs
E) Ministry of Tourism
Answer: C
3. What is the age limit for YUVA 3.0 participants?
A) Below 25 years
B) Below 30 years
C) Below 35 years
D) Below 40 years
E) Below 45 years
Answer: B
4. How long is the mentorship period under YUVA?
A) 3 months
B) 6 months
C) 9 months
D) 12 months
E) 18 months
Answer: B
5. What is the monthly scholarship provided under the scheme?
A) ₹25,000
B) ₹30,000
C) ₹50,000
D) ₹75,000
E) ₹1,00,000
Answer: C
6. Who publishes the books authored under YUVA?
A) Sahitya Akademi
B) National Book Trust (NBT)
C) Indian Council for Cultural Relations
D) Ministry of Information
E) UNESCO
Answer: B
7. Which of these is a theme of YUVA 3.0?
A) Climate Change
B) Contribution of Indian Diaspora in Nation Building
C) Space Technology in India
D) Sports in India
E) Women Empowerment
Answer: B
8. What percentage of royalty do authors receive from book sales?
A) 5%
B) 10%
C) 15%
D) 20%
E) 25%
Answer: B
9. Which portal hosts the All India Contest for YUVA applications?
A) National Portal of India
B) MyGov India
C) e-Books India
D) NBT Digital Platform
E) IndiaLiterature.gov.in
Answer: B
10. Which national initiative aligns with the translation of books under YUVA?
A) Digital India
B) Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat
C) Make in India
D) Startup India
E) BharatNet
Answer: B
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