From Coconut Stalls to Global Science: Rakshita Churchihal Represents India at Tokyo Expo

A journey of extraordinary proportions is revealed as Rakshita Churchihal, a Class 10 student of Shingatalur in Gadag district, wins a coveted place at the Sakura Science High School Programme in Tokyo. Her simple hot vessel carrier model that makes school kitchen safe has taken her from local exhibitions to the world stage.

Innovation That Made a Difference

Prompted by a schoolgirl being burnt by a scalding vessel, Rakshita designed a low-cost and efficient carrier

The tool is non-electric and uses muscular power and friction mechanics

Made using recycled components, it is cheap and eco-friendly

Recognition and Selection Process

Rakshita's design caught the eye at the Inspire Manak Awards, an initiative of the government to encourage scientific talent

Her project progressed to taluk, district, and state-level exhibitions, earning her a spot in the national exhibition in September 2024

She has been chosen from among 54 Indian students and will take part in Sakura Science High School Programme from June 15 to 21

A Proud Moment for Her Community

Rakshita's parents, coconut sellers at Guddad Veerabhadreshwar temple, are utterly proud of her achievement

Her school headmaster and village education committee welcome her achievement as a turning point for their village

Rakshita's story is an example of how determination and innovation can overcome obstacles, showing that talent has no bounds. 

Source: Times of India