YEIKCA - Basic
(Youth Empowerment Indigenous Knowledge & Career Accelerator Program)

Last Date for registration: September 30th 2026, 11:59 PM EST

The YEIKCA Program is designed to equip young aspiring researchers with foundational skills in academic research, writing, and presentation. This program aims to foster a collaborative environment where youth can explore various topics in social sciences and scientific research, under the mentorship of seasoned scholars. Through structured mentorship, participants will develop essential research skills, gain exposure to high-level academic activities, and contribute to meaningful research outputs. This introductory program is tailored for young minds looking to engage with research methodologies, sharpen their academic writing, and enhance their critical thinking abilities in a structured, yet creative environment.

This program is open to students from all countries including North America, Middle East, Indian Sub-continent and rest of the world.

Title of the Program: YEIKCA - Basic
(Youth Empowerment Indigenous Knowledge & Career Accelerator Program)
Venue: Online/ Virtual – Live + Recorded Content
Last Date for registration: September 30th 2026, 11:59 PM EST
Time Commitment Per Week: 2- 3 hours
Language: English
Region: Global
Price: $799
Publication Fees, Conference Fees and related Transportation, Accommodation, and Food costs will be additional and borne by the participants.
Pre-requisite: None

Award winner Sruthika Pillai’s presentation

Program Description

This online introductory program focuses on teaching the fundamentals of research methodologies, literature reviews, and academic writing. Participants will learn to draft research abstracts, while also developing their public speaking and presentation skills.

The program includes:

Training in research methodologies and academic writing.
Guidance on presenting research findings at conferences.
Mentorship from experienced researchers, along with networking opportunities with global academic communities.
By the end of the program, participants will have the opportunity to co-author a research abstract with their mentor and present at a conference. They will also have built a strong foundation for future academic pursuits.

Program Features

Collaborate with Leading Experts

Work alongside world-renowned scientists and researchers at the forefront of their fields.

Bridging Ancient Wisdom With Modern Science

Experience a unique approach that merges ancient insights with modern scientific innovations, driving a paradigm shift in understanding.

Transdisciplinary Learning

Engage in a curriculum that spans multiple disciplines, providing a holistic view of knowledge and research.

Program Outcome

Opportunities for Presentation & Publication

Showcase your research at Global Transdisciplinary Confluence to be held first week of April 2025 in Maharishi International University

Abstract submitted by previous students

Develop Creative Problem-Solving Skills

Enhance your ability to think critically and devise innovative solutions for real-world challenges.

Strengthen Your College Applications

Highlight your commitment to learning, research, and positive changes, making your application stand out.

Hands-On Learning with Real-World Impact

Engage in meaningful projects that tackle real-world problems, gaining valuable practical experience.

Personal Growth & Self-Discovery

Build confidence, leadership, and teamwork skills while exploring your passions and unlocking your full potential.

Areas of Research

Sailesh Rao

Veganism in India: Statista claims that 11% of Indians are vegan, based on an online survey: https://www.statista.com/topics/8771/veganism-and-vegetarianism-worldwide/. Devise a survey that avoids confusion over dairy and find the true percentage of vegans in India.
Vegan Recidivism: The Vegan movement suffers from recidivism. It is estimated that there are 4-5 times as many "ex-vegans" as there are vegans. Study the cause of vegan recidivism and determine what we can do to minimize it.

Dr. Abhinav Aggarwal

Depending on the student profile (middle/high school, college, university—undergraduate, master’s, or Ph.D.), the level of participation and research orientation can be tailored accordingly.
From making presentations at conferences to publishing research papers of varying complexity—ranging from problem identification to literature reviews that identify research gaps, defining solutions, establishing uniqueness and novelty, filing patents, or creating research theses—here is a broad overview of topics that may interest students or research scholars.
We are not limited to these topics, as they will continue to evolve. With our collaborative creativity, we will consistently improve the list of potential areas of interest.

Sustainable Building Materials and Net-Negative Dwelling Units: This includes studying the suitability of materials for specific regions and climates, designing models for DIY huts, sustainable interior design, hands-on prototyping, and ultimately creating integrated living communities.
Integration of Solar Panels with Low-Voltage Gadgets: Inventing and developing energy-efficient heating and cooling devices, as well as all-in-one appliances that meet daily needs.
Integrated Water Management Systems to Address Rising Sea Levels: Led by Kalapana Adhikari for the master’s program, with joint guidance for Ph.D. candidates.
Integrated Living Community Architecture and Design: This involves therapeutic healing gardens and forest and garden designs based on Vastu and Nava Graha orientations, led by Jayanthi Raghu and Kiran Varsith.
AI for Healing App: Focused on benefiting humanity and the planet.
AI Applications for Modeling Water and CO2 Levels: Projections for reductions in these levels through energy domes and the creation of prototypes.
Environment-Friendly Power Generation: Exploring solar, wind, pedal-powered, freeze-tapping, and buoyancy-gravity methods, along with AI models and prototype creation.
Dream Device to Eliminate the Need for Travel: For shopping and tourism.
Green Currency Ecosystem Centered Around UNY: Involving blockchain technology, work portals, loan programs, and interdependence models, with Siddhant Bhandari as the lead faculty for the master’s program, jointly guiding Ph.D. candidates.
Altruistic Gamification for Green Loyalty: Led by Surbhi Hirawat for the master’s program, with joint guidance for Ph.D. candidates.

Dr. Vanadeep Kaluvagunta

1. Topic: Traditional Water Management Systems in Ancient India and Their Relevance to Modern Water Conservation and Sustainability

Description: This project explores ancient Indian water management techniques such as step wells (baolis), tanks, and indigenous rainwater harvesting systems. Students will analyze how these methods can be revitalized and integrated into modern urban and rural water conservation efforts, particularly in drought-prone regions. They will also study the age-old Indian water purification methods, assess their efficacy as well as contrast their affordability and large-scale economic feasibility with today's common practices. The study will highlight how traditional systems, designed for sustainability, can complement modern water management and purification techniques to address contemporary water crises.

2. Topic: The Panchamahabhutas (Five Elements) and Environmental Balance: A Holistic Approach to Climate Resilience

Description: In the ancient Indian knowledge system, the Panchamahabhutas (Earth, Water, Fire, Air, and Space) were considered essential elements of life and the environment. This project examines the balance of these five elements in nature and how disruptions—such as deforestation, pollution, and climate change—affect environmental stability. Students will explore how this holistic approach, rooted in ancient Indian thought, can inform modern environmental policy, ecosystem management, and climate resilience strategies.

3. Topic: Traditional Indian Weather Forecasting Methods and Modern Meteorological Science

Description: Ancient Indian farmers relied on weather prediction techniques based on natural indicators like animal behavior, wind patterns, and cloud formations. This project investigates the accuracy and relevance of these traditional forecasting methods in the context of modern meteorology. Students will study how these time-tested practices can be integrated with modern scientific methods to enhance community-based weather forecasting and climate preparedness, especially in rural India. These project ideas blend ancient Indian environmental wisdom with modern scientific approaches, creating opportunities for interdisciplinary learning and addressing pressing global challenges like climate change, sustainability, and environmental management.

Dr. Geeta Sandeep Nadella

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Overview of AI/ML contributions to SDGs
Importance of publishing and presenting research

Targeted SDGs for Research

SDG 4: Quality Education
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

Objectives of the Project

Research and publication of high-quality papers
Participation in international conferences
Cross-disciplinary collaboration and dissemination

Research Methodology

Literature review of existing research
Development of case studies on AI/ML applications
Quantitative analysis of AI/ML impacts on SDGs

In-depth Exploration of SDG Contributions

SDG 4: AI tools for personalized learning and data analytics
SDG 8: Enhancing productivity and innovation through AI/ML
SDG 9: AI in industrial efficiency and infrastructure resilience
SDG 11: AI-driven urban planning for sustainable cities
SDG 17: Collaboration for global development using AI/ML

Expected Outcomes

Publication of peer-reviewed articles in Scopus-indexed journals
Presentations at international conferences, especially IEEE
Development of collaborative research projects

Conclusion and Call for Partnerships

Importance of research dissemination for global challenges
Invitation for funding and collaboration with stakeholders

Ved Acharya Dr. Dhanada Kulkarni

Ayurveda

Biohacking through Ayurvedic Chronobiology: Exploring how aligning daily routines (Dinacharya) and seasonal routines (Ritucharya) with biological rhythms can optimize health and performance.
Ayurvedic Approaches to Sustainable Living: Investigating how Ayurvedic principles can guide eco-friendly lifestyles, including sustainable farming, eating habits, and natural living.
The Impact of Emotional Health on Digestion: Researching how stress and emotions (Sadhaka Pitta) affect the digestive system according to Ayurveda.
Ayurveda’s Perspective on Digital Overload: Understanding how prolonged exposure to digital devices may affect Vata imbalance and how Ayurveda can offer solutions for digital detox.
Role of Dietary Habits in Balancing Doshas: Exploring the influence of food on health according to Ayurvedic principles.
Herbal Remedies for Common Ailments: A comparison of Ayurvedic herbs used to treat common conditions like colds, coughs, or digestive issues.

Yoga

Yoga for Space Travel: Researching how the principles of yoga could be used to maintain astronauts’ physical and mental health during long-term space missions.
The Influence of Yoga on Epigenetics: Investigating how practicing yoga and meditation can potentially influence gene expression and overall health.
Yoga for Social Emotional Learning (SEL) in Schools: Exploring how yoga can be used to develop self-awareness, emotional regulation, and social skills in school environments.
Yoga and Neuroplasticity: Researching how specific yoga practices can promote brain flexibility and learning through the process of neuroplasticity.
The Role of Mudras in Cognitive Enhancement: Exploring how hand gestures (Mudras) used in yoga can affect mental clarity, memory, and focus.
Comparing Different Forms of Yoga: Researching the benefits of various yoga forms like Hatha, Vinyasa, and Kundalini for physical and mental health.
Effects of Meditation on Academic Performance: Studying how regular meditation practices impact focus, memory, and overall academic performance.
Understanding the Mind-Body Connection through Yoga: How yoga helps maintain harmony between physical and mental health.

Your step-by-step journey in the YEIKCA Program

The YEICA (Youth Engagement in Innovative Conference Activities) program is designed to guide students in the exciting journey of research and conference presentation.

Registration and Initial Consultation

To begin, register for the program using the registration link. A SVM associate will contact you to discuss your research interests, and we recommend involving your parents or close friends for additional support.

Faculty Mentorship

Once your interests are identified, you will be matched with a highly skilled faculty member who specializes in research and the conference presentation process. Regular meetings with your mentor will ensure you stay on track and receive personalized guidance throughout your research.

Educational Components

You will participate in a series of classes covering research methodology, basic statistical tools, and conference presentation techniques. Some classes will occur early in the program, while others will be scheduled as your research progresses.

Research and Data Analysis

Under the guidance of your mentor, you will learn how to gather and analyze data effectively. For instance, previous participants have conducted impactful projects, such as assessing the effectiveness of eye improvement protocols through pre- and post-testing with friends and family.

Abstract Submission

Once your data analysis is complete, you will write a 350-word abstract to be submitted for acceptance at the 2025 Global Transdisciplinary Confluence Conference, scheduled to take place in early April at Maharishi International University in Fairfield, Iowa. The conference is a fantastic opportunity to present your research to a supportive audience.

Review and Acceptance

Following your abstract submission, you may receive editorial feedback from reviewers. You’ll have the chance to make necessary revisions and resubmit until you achieve acceptance, a notable achievement in itself.

Presentation Skills Development

In collaboration with your faculty mentor, you’ll also prepare a PowerPoint presentation. Practicing public speaking skills is essential, as you will be presenting your findings to an audience of fellow researchers and scientists who are eager to support your growth.

Building Your Resume

Acceptance of your abstract for the conference is a noteworthy accomplishment to include on your resume, alongside a link to the conference website. This distinction will help your application stand out in competitive environments.

A High Level of Achievement

Participating in the YEICA program signifies a remarkable level of accomplishment that few students achieve. Embrace this opportunity to develop your skills and expand your horizons in the world of research and presentation!