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Time of India
25-05-2025
- Climate
- Time of India
IMD restricts access to weather data over fear of cyber attack
1 2 Hyderabad: In response to potential cyber threats emerging after recent escalation in India-Pakistan tensions, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has initiated major cyber security upgrades, including installation of firewalls and a password-based access system, to protect its core weather data platforms. This was done following suspicious data access attempts from IP addresses in Pakistan and Afghanistan, officials said. "So far, IMD websites and databases were accessed by many without any security measures. Due to recent situations of cyber threats from outside the country, it was decided to install firewalls and also user ID password-based access to restricted individuals. This can help prevent cyber attacks," IMD, Hyderabad, director Dr K Nagaratna, said As part of these security measures, access to data from automatic weather stations (AWS) and RAPID (real-time analysis of product and information dissemination) has been restricted. RAPID is a web-based tool used for visualising and analysing Indian National Satellite (INSAT) system data, crucial for weather event identification. The decision has drawn concern from weather bloggers and independent meteorologists, who regularly use IMD tools for real-time updates. Balaji T, popularly known as Telangana Weatherman, said, "IMD has now restricted access to AWS and RAPID. This was so useful for weather enthusiasts and bloggers." by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với sàn môi giới tin cậy IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo Describing the AWS system, he said it includes remote stations, telemetry, and Earth receiving stations, equipped to measure temperature, humidity, pressure, rainfall, wind, solar radiation, and soil metrics. "RADAR of IMD is still accessible. We don't know when it will go off. We, as weather enthusiasts, feel that giving access to this data will not be an issue of cyber security. We use ground observations and international models. It will be difficult for young weather enthusiasts. They have to now depend on international data," he added. Balaji also pointed out that in many countries, weather data was treated as open data. "Worldwide, weather data is liberalised, making it open data. India is going in reverse," he said. S Sai Kiran, Vizag Weatherman, said: "We rely primarily on weather models from European and US-based sources. We have used AWS and RAPID only a few times. Additionally, we refer to data from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh State Development Planning Society portals. For other regions in India, we largely depend on data from IMD and now it is inaccessible. For radar information, we continue to use IMD's doppler radar system, which is still available. "
Time of India
27-04-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Dr K Kasturirangan's contribution to Space Science and nation building
Professor Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan, or Dr. Kasuturirangan as he is fondly remembered as, was a remarkable leader, an accomplished scientist, and a transformative figure of our nation, who profoundly shaped India's space ambitions, educational framework, and showed the vision for the future. His life's journey, marked by an unwavering pursuit of knowledge and its application for the nation's advancement, has left an enduring legacy. Professor Kasturirangan's early academic brilliance, culminating in a doctorate in Experimental High Energy Astronomy from the University of Bombay laid a strong foundation for his extraordinary contributions to space exploration. He received the doctorate degree in 1971 when he was working at Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad. During his tenure at ISRO Satellite Centre (now the Satellite Centre), he was the Project Director for India's first two experimental earth observation satellites, BHASKARA-I & II. One of his landmark contributions was the expansion of India's remote sensing program. Satellites like IRS-1C and IRS-1D launched during his tenure provided high-resolution data for use in agriculture, forestry, water resources, and urban planning. His vision helped bridge the gap between advanced technology and development, demonstrating how space science could directly benefit common public. During 1990s and early 2000s, played a leading role in building and strengthening global perspectives of space activities. As a key person at the ISRO's lead Centre for Satellite Technology, ISRO Satellite Centre, for more than two decades and finally as its Director during 1990-1994 had primary responsibility for establishing design, fabrication, qualification and integration methodologies and systems for all satellites and their subsystems. His long and impactful association with ISRO saw him serve as Chairman and Secretary of the Department of Space from 1994 to 2003. This era witnessed significant progress and several major missions under his insightful guidance. He spearheaded the successful development and launch of vital satellite series like Indian National Satellite (INSAT) for communication and meteorology, and IRS for Earth observation. The space programme witnessed successful operationalisation of PSLV and flight testing of GSLV during his leadership. Notably, India's first lunar mission, Chandrayaan-1, was conceived during his leadership, firmly establishing the nation in lunar exploration and yielding invaluable scientific insights. His steadfast dedication to developing indigenous technologies ensured India's growing self-reliance in the crucial space sector. As an Astrophysicist, Dr. Kasturirangan's interest includes research in high energy X-ray and gamma ray astronomy as well as optical astronomy. He actively supported and driven the development and realisation of multi-wavelength astronomy mission, AstroSat right from the beginning. Beyond his monumental achievements in space, Professor Kasturirangan's visionary outlook extended to education. He chaired the committee responsible for drafting the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, a pivotal policy aimed at revolutionizing India's education system. The NEP 2020, with its emphasis on holistic development, critical thinking, multidisciplinary learning, and the integration of technology, reflects his deep understanding of the evolving needs of students and the nation. His leadership in shaping this policy underscores his commitment to nurturing young minds and empowering future generations. The policy's focus on early childhood education, foundational literacy and numeracy, and flexible higher education pathways stands as a testament to his comprehensive vision for an equitable and high-quality education system. Apart from his scientific contributions, Dr. Kasturirangan played a vital role in shaping India's education and science policy. He chaired the committee that drafted the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020), a transformative document aimed at modernizing India's education system to make it more holistic, flexible, and aligned with the needs of the 21st century. The policy emphasizes early childhood education, foundational literacy, research, and multidisciplinary learning. He was the Member (Science), planning commission from 2009 to 2014 and instrumental in formulating the 12th Five year plan of total S&T sector of India. Dr Kasturirangan also made a significant contribution to environmental conservation through his role as the Chairman of th high level working group on Western ghats, popularly known as Kasturirangan committee. Professor Kasturirangan's influence extended far beyond space and education. He held significant positions such as Member of the Planning Commission, Member of the Rajya Sabha from 2003-2009 and Chairman of the Karnataka Knowledge Commission. In these roles, he consistently championed science, technology, and education, advocating for policies that fostered innovation and societal progress. His insightful contributions to policymaking across diverse sectors demonstrated his wide-ranging expertise and his unwavering dedication to national development. His dedication and accomplishments earned him numerous prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan, India's highest civilian honors, as well as international recognition for his scientific and technological contributions. These accolades underscore the profound impact he had on India and the world. In the Indian tradition, it is believed that the seeds sown by great individuals blossom into mighty trees, offering shade and sustenance for generations to come, thereby forming a rich ecosystem, and legacies down the line. Professor Kasturirangan's visionary work in space and education has indeed grown into such lofty trees, inspiring countless individuals to pursue careers in science and contribute to the nation's progress. His indomitable spirit, characterized by unwavering determination and a relentless pursuit of excellence, will continue to energize future scientific endeavors in the country. Let us honor this great inspiration through our own sincere, relentless, and selfless hard work towards building a stronger and more prosperous India Facebook Twitter Linkedin Email Disclaimer Views expressed above are the author's own.
NDTV
27-04-2025
- Science
- NDTV
K Kasturirangan's Contribution To Space Science And Nation Building
Professor Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan, or Dr Kasuturirangan as he is fondly remembered as, was a remarkable leader, an accomplished scientist, and a transformative figure of our nation, who profoundly shaped India's space ambitions, educational framework, and showed the vision for the future. His life's journey, marked by an unwavering pursuit of knowledge and its application for the nation's advancement, has left an enduring legacy. Professor Kasturirangan's early academic brilliance, culminating in a doctorate in Experimental High Energy Astronomy from the University of Bombay laid a strong foundation for his extraordinary contributions to space exploration. He received the doctorate degree in 1971 when he was working at Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad. During his tenure at ISRO Satellite Centre (now the UR Rao Satellite Centre), he was the Project Director for India's first two experimental earth observation satellites, BHASKARA-I and II. One of his landmark contributions was the expansion of India's remote sensing programme. Satellites like IRS-1C and IRS-1D launched during his tenure provided high-resolution data for use in agriculture, forestry, water resources, and urban planning. His vision helped bridge the gap between advanced technology and development, demonstrating how space science could directly benefit the common public. During the 1990s and early 2000s, he played a leading role in building and strengthening global perspectives of space activities. As a key person at ISRO's lead Centre for Satellite Technology, ISRO Satellite Centre, for more than two decades and finally as its Director during 1990-1994 had primary responsibility for establishing design, fabrication, qualification and integration methodologies and systems for all satellites and their subsystems. His long and impactful association with ISRO saw him serve as Chairman and Secretary of the Department of Space from 1994 to 2003. This era witnessed significant progress and several major missions under his insightful guidance. He spearheaded the successful development and launch of vital satellite series like Indian National Satellite (INSAT) for communication and meteorology, and IRS for Earth observation. The space programme witnessed successful operationalisation of PSLV and flight testing of GSLV during his leadership. Notably, India's first lunar mission, Chandrayaan-1, was conceived during his leadership, firmly establishing the nation in lunar exploration and yielding invaluable scientific insights. His steadfast dedication to developing indigenous technologies ensured India's growing self-reliance in the crucial space sector. As an Astrophysicist, Dr. Kasturirangan's interest includes research in high energy X-ray and gamma ray astronomy as well as optical astronomy. He actively supported and drove the development and realisation of multi-wavelength astronomy mission, AstroSat, right from the beginning. Beyond his monumental achievements in space, Professor Kasturirangan's visionary outlook extended to education. He chaired the committee responsible for drafting the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, a pivotal policy aimed at revolutionizing India's education system. The NEP 2020, with its emphasis on holistic development, critical thinking, multidisciplinary learning, and the integration of technology, reflects his deep understanding of the evolving needs of students and the nation. His leadership in shaping this policy underscores his commitment to nurturing young minds and empowering future generations. The policy's focus on early childhood education, foundational literacy and numeracy, and flexible higher education pathways stands as a testament to his comprehensive vision for an equitable and high-quality education system. Apart from his scientific contributions, Dr Kasturirangan played a vital role in shaping India's education and science policy. He chaired the committee that drafted the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020), a transformative document aimed at modernizing India's education system to make it more holistic, flexible, and aligned with the needs of the 21st century. The policy emphasizes early childhood education, foundational literacy, research, and multidisciplinary learning. He was the Member (Science), planning commission from 2009 to 2014 and instrumental in formulating the 12th Five Year Plan of the science and technology sector of India. Dr Kasturirangan made a significant contribution to environmental conservation through his role as the Chairman of the high level working group on Western Ghats, popularly known as Kasturirangan committee. Professor Kasturirangan's influence extended far beyond space and education. He held significant positions such as Member of the Planning Commission, Member of the Rajya Sabha from 2003-2009 and Chairman of the Karnataka Knowledge Commission. In these roles, he consistently championed science, technology, and education, advocating for policies that fostered innovation and societal progress. His insightful contributions to policymaking across diverse sectors demonstrated his wide-ranging expertise and his unwavering dedication to national development. His dedication and accomplishments earned him numerous prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan, India's highest civilian honours, as well as international recognition for his scientific and technological contributions. These accolades underscore the profound impact he had on India and the world. In the Indian tradition, it is believed that the seeds sown by great individuals' blossom into mighty trees, offering shade and sustenance for generations to come, thereby forming a rich ecosystem, and legacies down the line. Professor Kasturirangan's visionary work in space and education has indeed grown into such lofty trees, inspiring countless individuals to pursue careers in science and contribute to the nation's progress. His indomitable spirit, characterized by unwavering determination and a relentless pursuit of excellence, will continue to energize future scientific endeavours in the country. Let us honour this great inspiration through our own sincere, relentless, and selfless hard work towards building a stronger and more prosperous India.
The Print
25-04-2025
- Science
- The Print
Former ISRO chief K Kasturirangan, the brain behind NEP 2020, dies at 84
He passed away at 10.43 am at his home in Bengaluru after a prolonged illness. In a statement, the family said Kasturirangan's body will be kept at Bengaluru's Raman Research Institute (RRI) Sunday between 10 am and 12 pm for people to pay their last respects. Kasturirangan, who also served as secretary of the Department of Space, was the pioneer of India's remote sensing satellites and played a pivotal role in propelling India to the front and centre of the highly competitive emerging space race. New Delhi: Former Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairperson Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan, known as the father of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) in India's space circuit, died Friday. He was 84. Kasturirangan survived a major heart attack in 2023 but his health condition progressively deteriorated since, people close to the scientist told ThePrint. Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a post on X said Kasturirangan's visionary leadership and selfless contribution to the nation will always be remembered. 'He served ISRO with great diligence, steering India's space programme to new heights, for which we also received global recognition,' Modi posted on social media platform 'X'. I am deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. K. Kasturirangan, a towering figure in India's scientific and educational journey. His visionary leadership and selfless contribution to the nation will always be remembered. He served ISRO with great diligence, steering India's space… — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 25, 2025 'To me, he was far more than a mentor—he was a guiding light, a wellspring of wisdom, compassion, and quiet strength. I consider myself truly fortunate to have received his affection, blessings, and guidance over the years,' Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan posted on X. I am deeply heartbroken by the passing of Padma Vibhushan Dr. K. Kasturirangan ji. His loss is not only a profound one for the global scientific and academic community, but an intensely personal one for me. To me, he was far more than a mentor — he was a guiding light, a… — Dharmendra Pradhan (@dpradhanbjp) April 25, 2025 Also read: 'Centre should refer to 2013 report' — ex-ISRO chief on upcoming Western Ghats notification Space pioneer Best known for his illustrious career in shaping India's space programme, Kasturirangan was chairperson of ISRO for nine years, between 1994 and 2003. Before taking charge of the ISRO, he held various important positions, including as director of the ISRO Satellite Centre, where he oversaw activities related to the Indian National Satellite (INSAT-2), Indian Remote Sensing Satellites (IRS-1A and 1B), scientific satellites and new generation spacecraft. He was also project director for India's first two experimental earth observation satellites—BHASKARA-I and II—and spearheaded the country's first operational Indian Remote Sensing Satellite, IRS-1A. Under his leadership, ISRO also launched and operationalised its most trusted workhorse rocket, the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and undertook the first successful flight testing of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). These launch vehicles have the highest success records and continue to be used for significant mission launches. Former ISRO chairperson, S. Somanath, told ThePrint the passing of Kasturirangan was a big loss to the scientific community, which gained immensely from his work and experience. 'A lot of what the ISRO has achieved is because of his contributions.' In 2013, a 10-member panel led by Kasturirangan recommended the notification of 37 percent of the 1.29 lakh square kilometres of Western Ghats as ecologically sensitive. In an interview with ThePrint in August last year, he had urged the government to implement recommendations of the committee to ensure protection and conservation of the Western Ghats while considering the plight of residents in the area. The brain behind NEP 2020 Dr. K. Kasturirangan was also the driving force behind India's National Education Policy (NEP) 2020—a landmark policy that introduced sweeping changes across all levels of the country's education system. His leadership helped draft the policy encompassing a wide spectrum of educational reforms, including early childhood care and education, restructuring of school and higher education, examination reforms, and enhanced teacher training and professional development. He also chaired a 12-member steering committee that developed the National Curriculum Framework (NCF), which now serves as the foundation for new school textbooks currently being rolled out across the country. His colleagues from the NEP steering committee fondly remember him as a democratic and visionary leader who deeply valued collective input. 'He always thought ahead of his time while drafting the policy,' said NEP committee member and academician M.K. Sridhar in an interview with ThePrint. 'His approach wasn't to merely solve today's problems, but to envision the future of education in India.' Sridhar remembered Kasturirangan's inclusive and open-minded approach while drafting the policy. 'He took inputs for NEP 2020 from a wide range of voices—even school students. He gave equal importance to everyone's views and never dismissed anyone's. Throughout the process, he listened carefully and encouraged all of us to share our opinions freely,' he said. Early education and work Kasturirangan had a Bachelors degree in Science with Honours from the Ramnarain Ruia College in Mumbai, and a Masters degree in Physics from what was then called Bombay University (now University of Mumbai). He then received his Doctorate in experimental high-energy astronomy in 1971 from the university, and extensively worked in the Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad during his early career. In past conversations with ThePrint, Kasturirangan spoke extensively about his love for astrophysics, particularly in the areas of high-energy X-ray and gamma-ray astronomy and optical astronomy. A recipient of Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri for his contributions in the field of science, Kasturirangan had a long list of awards to his name, including the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award, Dr Vikram Sarabhai Prerit Award in Aerospace, MP Birla Memorial Award in Astronomy, Shri MM Chugani Memorial Award in Applied Science, H.K. Firodia Award in Science Technology, among others. Edited by Ajeet Tiwari) Also Read: Sriharikota, we have a situation. Limited budget, manpower are stifling India's space ambitions
Mint
25-04-2025
- Science
- Mint
Former ISRO chief K Kasturirangan passes away: 10 things to know about the space scientist
Former ISRO chairman K Kasturirangan passed away on Friday in Bengaluru, officials said. 'He left for heavenly abode this morning at his residence in Bengaluru. His body will be kept at Raman Research Institute (RRI) for paying last respects on April 27,' as per a PTI report quoting officials. Kasturirangan, who was 84 at the time of his death, is survived by his wife and two sons, according to the report quoting family sources. The sources also said that the former ISRO chief was suffering from ailments related to age for the past few months. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condoled the death of Kasturirangan. 1. Kasturirangan served as the chairperson of the drafting committee on New National Edutation Policy (NEP) as well as as chancellor of the Jawaharlal Nehru University and chairman of the Karnataka Knowledge Commission. 2. Kasturirangan served at ISRO for nine years till 2003. 3. He was earlier the Director of ISRO Satellite Centre, where he oversaw the activities related to the development of new generation spacecraft, Indian National Satellite (INSAT-2) and Indian Remote Sensing Satellites (IRS-1A & 1B) as well as scientific satellites. 4. Under his leadership, ISRO successfully launched many satellites including the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and more recently, the first successful flight testing of the all important Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). 5. He had also served as a member of the Rajya Sabha (2003–09) and as member of then Planning Commission of India. Kasturirangan was also the Director of the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru from April 2004 to 2009. 6. The former ISRO chief was born on October 24, 1940 at Ernakulam in Kerala to C M Krishnaswamy Iyer and Visalakshi. 7. Hailing from Tamil Nadu, his family had settled at Chalakudy in Thrissur district. His mother was hailing from Palakkad Iyer family. 8. Kasturirangan earned his Bachelor of Science with Honours and Master of Science degrees in Physics from Bombay University. He received his Doctorate Degree in Experimental High Energy Astronomy in 1971 working at the Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad. 9. As an astrophysicist, his interests included research in high energy X-ray and gamma ray astronomy as well as optical astronomy. He also made significant contributions to studies of Cosmic x-ray sources, celestial gamma-ray and effect of cosmic x-rays in the lower atmosphere. 10. For his exemplary work Kasturirangan was awarded Padma Vibhushan in the year 2000. The space scientist has also won several other awards throught his life for his contributions. First Published: 25 Apr 2025, 03:50 PM IST
