Dr. Kasturirangan: A Remarkable Legacy Transforming Space Science and Education in India

Bengaluru, April 25 (NationPress) Dr. Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan, who left us on Friday morning, was a prominent Indian space scientist and an influential leader who made remarkable strides in India's space and education sectors.

His contributions to both fields were invaluable.

Dr. Kasturirangan passed away at the age of 84 in Bengaluru. His visionary leadership in space exploration and education reform has profoundly impacted India's scientific and academic landscapes.

Born on October 24, 1940, in Ernakulam, Kerala, Dr. Kasturirangan completed his undergraduate and postgraduate studies in physics at the University of Mumbai. He subsequently earned his doctorate in experimental high-energy astronomy from the Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad.

His exceptional work garnered numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri (1982), Padma Bhushan (1992), and Padma Vibhushan (2000) awarded by the Government of India.

Dr. Kasturirangan held the position of Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) from 1994 to 2003, during which he oversaw several critical advancements.

He was instrumental in the development and operationalization of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), significantly enhancing India's self-sufficiency in space technology.

He supervised the launch of essential remote sensing satellites such as IRS-1C and IRS-1D, as well as the progress of INSAT communication satellites and ocean observation satellites like IRS-P3 and IRS-P4.

Under his guidance, ISRO initiated research that laid the foundation for India's inaugural lunar mission, Chandrayaan-1.

In addition to his contributions in space science, Dr. Kasturirangan played a pivotal role in India's education sector. He chaired the committee that devised the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aimed at overhauling India's educational framework.

He held the position of Vice-Chancellor at Jawaharlal Nehru University and chaired the Karnataka Knowledge Commission, influencing higher education and research policies.

Dr. Kasturirangan was a nominated member of the Rajya Sabha from 2003 to 2009 and was involved with the former Planning Commission of India, contributing to national policy-making in science and education.

His accolades also include the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award in Engineering Sciences (1983), M.P. Birla Memorial Award in Astronomy (1997), and the Theodore von Karman Award (2007), among others.

He authored over 200 scientific papers and edited six books, making significant contributions to astronomy and space science.

He was also a member of the Rajya Sabha from 2003 to 2009 and participated in the then Planning Commission of India.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah remarked on Friday, "The demise of the esteemed space scientist Dr. K. Kasturirangan, who elevated India's stature in space technology, is indeed shocking.

"Dr. Kasturirangan, a proud son of Karnataka, held deep affection and concern for our state.

"As the long-serving Chairman of ISRO and Director of the Indian Space Commission, his contributions have positioned India as a globally recognized leader in space science.

"I share in the grief of his family and admirers over the loss of Dr. Kasturirangan. I pray for peace for his soul."

Former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda expressed his sorrow, stating, "I am saddened by the passing of Dr. K Kasturirangan, a distinguished scientist, science administrator, educationist, and former Chairman of ISRO. His contributions to India's scientific advancement will be remembered for generations. Om Shanti."

BJP State President and MLA, B.Y. Vijayendra, also conveyed his heartfelt condolences regarding the passing of Dr. Kasturirangan.

Vijayendra stated that he would "pray to God for strength for the family, friends, and admirers of the departed to endure this profound loss" and that the "soul of the departed may find eternal peace."