Elevating India's Space Endeavors: PM Modi Mourns K. Kasturirangan's Passing
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Synopsis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expresses deep sorrow over the passing of K. Kasturirangan, former ISRO chairman. His visionary guidance and contributions to India's space program will be eternally honored.
Key Takeaways
- K. Kasturirangan was a pivotal figure in India's space exploration.
- He led ISRO from 1994 to 2003, achieving significant milestones.
- His contributions to the National Education Policy are noteworthy.
- He was awarded multiple prestigious honors including Padma Vibhushan.
- Kasturirangan's legacy will inspire future generations.
New Delhi, April 25 (NationPress) Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed profound sorrow on Friday over the passing of former ISRO chairman K. Kasturirangan, emphasizing that his visionary leadership and selfless dedication to the nation will be eternally cherished.
In a post on X, PM Modi lauded Kasturirangan, stating: "He dedicatedly served ISRO, guiding India’s space initiatives to unprecedented levels, garnering global esteem. His leadership facilitated ambitious satellite launches and emphasized innovation."
The Prime Minister conveyed that he was "deeply saddened" by Kasturirangan's demise, who was "a monumental figure in India’s scientific and educational evolution. His visionary leadership and selfless contribution to the nation will always be honored."
Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel, H.D. Kumaraswamy, expressed his condolences, stating, "I am profoundly saddened by the death of Padma Vibhushan Dr. Kasturirangan, a distinguished son of India, celebrated space scientist, former ISRO Chairman, and Chairperson of the National Education Policy (NEP 2020) draft Committee."
Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, and Minister of State for PMO, Atomic Energy, Space, Jitendra Singh, along with RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, also shared their sorrow over Kasturirangan’s passing.
“I am deeply saddened by the loss of Dr. K. Kasturirangan, a pioneering scientist and a driving force behind India’s space program. His contributions to ISRO and Indian science will be revered for generations. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones,” remarked MoS Singh in his post on X.
Kasturirangan, aged 84, passed away on Friday at his home in Bengaluru. According to an ISRO statement, his remains will be available for public viewing at the Raman Research Institute in Bengaluru on Sunday from 10 a.m. to noon.
Kasturirangan held the position of Chairman of ISRO from 1994 to 2003 and was honored with the Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri awards.
Often regarded as the architect of the educational reforms outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP), he also served as the Vice-Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University and as the Chairman of the Karnataka Knowledge Commission.
Furthermore, he was a member of the Rajya Sabha from 2003 to 2009 and participated in the Planning Commission of India.
