Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu mourns Kasturirangan's demise, extols his contributions to Indian space programmes
Condolences poured in from across political parties over the demise of K. Kasturirangan, former Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), on Friday.
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, in a post on X, said Dr. Kasturirangan was a scientist par excellence. As ISRO Chairman, he had successfully steered India's space programmes for nine years, leaving an indelible mark on the field. His contributions extended beyond space science.
Dr. Kasturirangan, as an educationist, was pivotal in formulating the National Education Policy (NEP)-2020, shaping the future of learning in India. A highly decorated scientist and Padma Vibhushan awardee, Dr. Kasturirangan had defined India's most ambitious space-based High Energy Astronomy Observatory, a milestone under his leadership, he said, adding, 'His passing is a huge loss to the nation and the global scientific community. I pray for his noble soul to rest in peace, and extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues.'
HRD Minister Nara Lokesh, in a message on X, said he was deeply saddened by the passing of 'Padma Vibhushan Dr. Kasturirangan Garu — a towering figure in India's space journey and education reform.'
Dr. Kasturirangan led ISRO during a transformative era, launching world-class satellites like IRS-1C/1D and INSAT, helping place India among the top space-faring nations. His vision also shaped NEP-2020 and the new National Curriculum Framework. Heartfelt condolences to his family, he said.
YSRCP president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, in a post on X, said he was deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Dr. Kasturirangan, an eminent scientist, visionary educator, and passionate environmentalist. Dr. Kasturirangan leaves an indelible mark on the annals of India's space history. 'My tributes to this legend. May his soul rest in peace,' he said.
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