New Delhi: The Ministry of Education, Department of Higher Education, has launched the third edition of the Prime Minister’s Scheme for Mentoring Young Authors (PM-YUVA 3.0), a national initiative aimed at nurturing young writers under the age of 30. The scheme seeks to cultivate a culture of reading, writing, and literary exploration while projecting Indian literature on the global stage.
Building on the success of the first two editions, which saw enthusiastic participation from budding authors in 22 Indian languages and English, PM-YUVA 3.0 continues the initiative with a fresh set of themes. This year’s edition will focus on three key areas: the contribution of the Indian diaspora in nation-building, the Indian Knowledge System, and the makers of modern India (1950-2025). These themes aim to encourage young authors to delve into India’s cultural heritage, historical wisdom, and visionary contributions across various fields.
The scheme aligns with the vision outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which emphasizes empowering young minds and preparing them for leadership roles. With 66% of India’s population comprising youth, the initiative serves as a platform to harness their creative potential and contribute to nation-building.
The National Book Trust (NBT), India, under the Ministry of Education, has been designated as the implementing agency for PM-YUVA 3.0. The scheme will be executed in a structured, phase-wise manner, ensuring that selected young writers receive expert mentorship. Their works will be published by NBT and translated into multiple Indian languages, fostering cultural and literary exchange while promoting the vision of ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.’
As part of the mentorship program, selected authors will have the opportunity to engage with renowned writers, participate in literary festivals, and contribute to a diverse body of work reflecting India’s heritage and progress. The scheme also highlights the role of the Indian diaspora in shaping the country’s global influence, the importance of indigenous knowledge systems in national development, and the impact of visionaries across various sectors.
A total of 50 authors will be selected through an all-India contest, conducted via the MyGov platform from March 11 to April 10, 2025. Their proposals will be evaluated in April, with the final list of selected candidates announced between May and June 2025. The young authors will undergo a six-month mentorship program from June 30 to December 30, 2025, guided by eminent authors and scholars.
The mentorship journey will culminate in a National Camp during the New Delhi World Book Fair 2026, where participants will showcase their works and engage in literary discussions. By fostering a new generation of talented writers, PM-YUVA 3.0 is set to leave a lasting impact on India’s literary and cultural landscape, reinforcing the country’s position as a global hub for literature and knowledge.
