Ahmedabad, May 20 -- A Grade 10 student at Adani International School, Mithilesh Khandwala is emerging as one of India's promising young achievers in science, mathematics and economics. While his accomplishments range from national science recognition to global mathematics competitions, Mithilesh credits an unusual source for his focus and discipline-the teachings of the Bhagavad Gita.
For Mithilesh, the ancient philosophical text is not just a spiritual book but a practical guide for daily life. He often reflects on the well-known verse,"Karmanye vadhikaraste ma phaleshu kadachana,"which emphasizes performing one's duty without attachment to the outcome.
"Krishna does not tell Arjuna to step away from his battle," Mithilesh explains. "He tells him to fight without anxiety about the result. For me, an examination or a science project is simply another battlefield. I focus on my effort and leave the rest aside."
Mentoring Young Students Through the Gita
Inspired by this philosophy and guided by Gyanvatsal Swami, Mithilesh runs an initiative titled"Bhagavad Gita: Bharat ni Adhyatmik Virasat."Through the program, he conducts interactive sessions for younger students, explaining the meaning of selected shlokas and connecting them to everyday lessons such as discipline, resilience, and integrity.
Teaching the verses, he says, helps him apply their message in his own life.
Gold Medal at the IRIS National Fair
Mithilesh recently earned national recognition at theIRIS National Fairheld in New Delhi. The event, formally known as theInitiative for Research and Innovation in STEM (IRIS)fair, brings together some of the country's most promising young scientific researchers.
Competing in theEarth and Environmental Sciencecategory, Mithilesh won theGold Medalfor his research project titled"Data-Driven Analysis of Energy Balance and Surface Flux Patterns over Indian Agro-Ecosystems."
The study integrates satellite observations and ground-based data to estimate crop water requirements and analyze environmental processes affecting agriculture. The findings aim to support efficient irrigation planning and sustainable water management for farmers.
The research aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of"Per Drop More Crop"and contributes to global sustainability goals under theUnited Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), includingSDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
His project was shortlisted among thetop 30 entries nationwideand was considered for representation at theInternational Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) 2026in the United States. The research was later published in aSCOPUS-indexed academic journal, a rare achievement for a school student.
International Recognition with CREST Gold
Mithilesh's environmental research also received international recognition through aCREST Gold Awardfrom theBritish Science Association. The CREST Awards program recognizes innovative scientific research conducted by students, with theGold level reserved for the most advanced independent projects.
The award acknowledged his work onsurface energy transfer characteristics across contrasting agro-ecosystems in India, highlighting the depth and originality of his research.
Among the World's Top 5% in Mathematics
Alongside his scientific work, Mithilesh has also distinguished himself in competitive mathematics. In the2025-26 American Mathematics Competitions (AMC), he rankedamong the top 5% of participants globally.
The AMC is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious mathematics contests for school students worldwide, testing analytical reasoning and creative problem-solving rather than memorization.
AIME Qualification
His AMC performance qualified him for theAmerican Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME), a highly selective contest open only to top scorers. Mithilesh achieved a strong score of10 out of 15, demonstrating advanced mathematical reasoning.
"The Gita teaches you not to be discouraged before you even begin," he says. "You simply work through the challenge, one problem at a time."
Perfect Score in AP Microeconomics
Expanding his academic achievements beyond science and mathematics, Mithilesh also scored aperfect 5 out of 5 in the Advanced Placement (AP) Microeconomics examination, reflecting his strong understanding of economic principles at an international level.
Leadership Beyond Academics
Beyond academics, Mithilesh has also built a strong record in student leadership. He is atwo-time prefectand has served asHouse Captain of Emerald Houseat his school. His achievements include theStudent of the Year Award, first place inHindi elocution, and recognition as anExemplary Human Being.
He has also represented youth voices at national leadership platforms such as theViksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2025and theSchool of Ultimate Leadership (SOUL) Conclave 2025, held atBharat Mandapam, New Delhi.
Ancient Wisdom for a Modern Generation
Whether solving a complex mathematics problem, conducting environmental research or mentoring younger students, Mithilesh believes the core message remains the same-focus on sincere effort rather than outcomes.
By combining scientific curiosity with the philosophical insights of the Bhagavad Gita, he hopes to demonstrate thatancient wisdom and modern ambition can move together toward a values-driven vision of India's future, echoing the national aspiration ofViksit Bharat 2047.
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Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from PNN.