Spin Your Science (SYS) - National Science Fiction Writing Competition
by FAST India (Foundation for Advancing Science and Technology India)
₹30,000 Cash Prize
Spin Your Science (SYS) - National Science Fiction Writing Competition is a competition by FAST India (Foundation for Advancing Science and Technology India) for children aged 4–25, open to students across India. It is free to take part.
Mode
Online
Fee
Free
Duration
The competition cycle typically runs for several months, culminating in a submission deadline.
Format
Individual · Teams of 2
Time needed
The time commitment varies based on the length and complexity of the submission.
About This Opportunity
Spin Your Science (SYS) is the flagship science fiction writing competition of the India Science Festival, meticulously organized by FAST India (Foundation for Advancing Science and Technology India). This prestigious competition is designed to ignite the imaginations of students, researchers, and professionals across India, encouraging them to explore pressing contemporary scientific themes and weave them into compelling narratives.
Participants are invited to craft original science fiction stories or scientific poems that resonate with diverse audiences, blending scientific accuracy with imaginative storytelling. SYS serves as a vital platform to showcase talent in science communication through the engaging medium of science fiction.
As a core event of the India Science Festival, India's largest non-governmental platform for the public celebration of science and technology, SYS aims to make complex scientific concepts accessible and exciting for everyone.
The competition fosters critical thinking, research skills, and creative expression, contributing to a deeper appreciation of science's role in society and its potential future impacts. It's an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to a genre that not only entertains but also inspires and unites people from all walks of life.
Eligibility
- Grade Level
- Age Range
- 4 - 25 years
- Location
- Nationwide
Academic requirement
Open to all science fiction enthusiasts, including students, researchers, and professionals from any academic background.
Prerequisites
- A passion for science and creative writing.
- Ability to articulate scientific concepts within a fictional framework.
Additional requirements
- Participants must have an Indian bank account to receive prizes.
Open to all sci-fi enthusiasts, including students, researchers, and professionals, regardless of age, background, or education. Participants must have an Indian bank account to receive prizes. Submissions must be original and not previously published. AI-aided writing is allowed with disclosure.
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Academic Details
Difficulty: Mixed Levels
What's covered
The competition does not follow a fixed curriculum but encourages exploration of diverse scientific concepts and their societal implications within a fictional framework. Participants are encouraged to research current scientific advancements and integrate them imaginatively.
Rewards & Recognition
Award
₹30,000
Cash prizes for the top 3 winners: 1st prize ₹30,000, 2nd prize ₹20,000, 3rd prize ₹10,000.
Certificate
Certificate of Recognition
All top 20 finalists will receive a certificate of recognition from FAST India and the India Science Festival, acknowledging their achievement in this national competition.
Recognized by
Opens doors to
Being an India Science Festival finalist or a top winner provides a strong differentiator for college and university applications, especially for programs in science, engineering, humanities, and interdisciplinary studies. It showcases initiative, intellectual curiosity, and advanced communication skills.
Career pathways
Participation and recognition in SYS can significantly boost profiles for higher education admissions and career opportunities in STEM, media, and communication. It demonstrates a unique blend of scientific acumen and creative talent, highly valued in diverse professional fields.
Recognition
National Recognition
Skills your child builds
Highlights
- Focus on blending science with creative storytelling.
- Opportunity for direct feedback from acclaimed science fiction authors.
- Part of a larger national science festival, offering broader exposure to science and technology.
Rounds & format
Participants submit their science fiction stories or scientific poems online. Submissions are evaluated by a panel of judges.
How entries are judged
Entries are evaluated based on scientific accuracy, creativity, aesthetic appeal, clarity of communication, and adherence to word limits. Originality and imaginative integration of scientific insights are key.
Selection process
Top entries are selected based on originality, scientific integration, narrative quality, and adherence to guidelines. The top 20 entries are recognized as ISF fellows, with the top three receiving prizes.
How to apply
- 1Entries are submitted online through a dedicated Google Form, accessible via the India Science Festival website.
- 2Only one entry per person is allowed. If multiple entries are submitted from the same email, only the latest submission will be considered.
- 3Submissions must be in both Word and PDF formats, adhering to specified formatting guidelines (Font: Arial, Size: Title – 12, Body – 10, Margins: 2.5 cm, Spacing: 1.0).
- 4Ensure your submitted document does not include any personal identification information; provide correct details only in the submission form.
How to prepare
- Explore various science fiction genres and authors.
- Research current scientific and technological advancements.
- Practice creative writing and storytelling techniques.
- Attend webinars or workshops on science fiction writing and science communication.
Fees & financial support
Fee details
Participation in the Spin Your Science competition is completely free of charge, ensuring accessibility for all eligible enthusiasts across India.
Refund policy
Not applicable as there is no participation fee.
Frequently asked questions
Is Spin Your Science (SYS) - National Science Fiction Writing Competition free?
This opportunity is free to participate in.
Who can participate in Spin Your Science (SYS) - National Science Fiction Writing Competition ?
children aged 4-25.
What will my child gain from Spin Your Science (SYS) - National Science Fiction Writing Competition ?
The top 3 science fiction stories or poems will be awarded cash prizes. 1st prize rupees 30,000, 2nd prize rupees 20,000, 3rd prize rupees10,000.. Opportunity for top entries to be published on the India Science Festival website and annual magazine.. Mentorship and detailed feedback from esteemed jury members, including renowned sci-fi authors.. Opportunity to attend an online workshop by luminaries of sci-fi writing.. National-level recognition and exposure through the India Science Festival.. All top 20 finalists will receive a certificate of recognition from FAST India and the India Science Festival..
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