Abdul Furqan, a visionary 9th-grade student from Hathnoora village in Sangareddy District, Telangana, has earned global acclaim by representing India at the prestigious NASA International Space Development Conference (ISDC) 2023, held in Dallas, USA.
A student of Sri Chaitanya Techno School, Kompally (2023 batch), Abdul was officially invited to present his innovative space science project titled ELYSIUM. Competing among some of the brightest young minds from across the world, his project garnered a special award and certificate of excellence—making him the youngest Indian to receive such a distinction at the global platform.
Avinash Shinde, NSS Space Ambassador and a key presence at the event, lauded Abdul’s creativity and scientific insight, describing him as a rising star in the field of space research.
Despite having no sponsorship, Abdul’s father, Abdul Waheed, made tremendous sacrifices—personally funding the entire trip at great cost to ensure his son’s dream did not go unfulfilled. Now, the family is appealing to the Government of Telangana and the Government of India for recognition and financial support to nurture Abdul’s growing talent and fuel his aspirations in space science and innovation.
Abdul Furqan’s journey stands as a powerful example of the untapped potential in India’s rural communities. With the right encouragement and institutional backing, young innovators like him can help shape the nation’s scientific future. His family hopes this achievement inspires others and prompts meaningful investment in grassroots scientific talent.
