Latest news with #K.Kasturirangan
The Hindu
26-04-2025
- Science
- The Hindu
K. Kasturirangan (1940-2025): In-depth coverage
Former Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman Dr. K. Kasturirangan passed away in Bengaluru on April 25, 2025. He was 84 years old. The former space scientist's health had been deteriorating for a week prior to his demise. Dr. Kasturirangan started his career as an X-ray astronomer and he grew up in positions. He made significant contributions in the field of science, technology and education through his academic achievements. He was conferred with Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan for his contributions. He served as the fifth chairman of ISRO between 1994-2003, and also as the Secretary, Department of Space for over nine years. During his four-decade-long career in ISRO, he was part of several key missions. Dr. Kasturirangan's contributions to the well-debated new National Education Policy 2020, his tenure as a Member of the Rajya Sabha (2003-09) and Chairman of the Karnataka Knowledge Commission are glimpses of his tireless contribution to the future of the nation. Here is a collection of articles on K. Kasturirangan.
The Hindu
25-04-2025
- Science
- The Hindu
Kasturirangan mentored future Indian space leaders, recall scientists
Starting as a young research scholar at the Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad, in 1963, K. Kasturirangan's career in the Indian space sector spanned nearly four decades as he occupied the top position of Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in the 1990s. During his tenure in ISRO as the head of various centres and project director of landmark missions, Dr. Kasturirangan mentored many future space leaders who went on to occupy the top echelons of the Indian space sector. Inspiring figure 'As a young engineer in ISRO, I had the opportunity to interact and learn from him. I regularly used to seek his advice on various issues even after I assumed the role of ISRO Chairman, and he was very forthcoming and helpful in sharing his views,' former ISRO Chairman K. Sivan told The Hindu. He added that Dr. Kasturirangan's death is a loss not just for the space sector but the entire country, considering the several posts he had held. 'After retiring from ISRO, he served in various positions as the Rajya Sabha member and the Planning Commission member. He also headed several crucial committees like the ones on the Western Ghats and the National Education Policy. Hence, his passing away is a loss not just for the space fraternity but the nation as a whole.' In his post on X, another former ISRO Chairman S. Somanath said, 'He had a profound influence on all of us in ISRO. It leaves a vacuum in the community of technocrats and thinkers whose voice is heard by all.' Several missions In Dr. Kasturirangan's tenure, ISRO had a near-100% success for space by way of 29 successful missions (of satellites and launch vehicles), including four commercial/foreign satellites launched through Antrix. He also held various important roles in international bodies including vice-president (Scientific Affairs) of the International Academy of Astronautics (2003-2005), member of the International Academy of Astronautics Sub-Committee on Mars Exploration (1992-93), and chairman of COSPAR Panel on Space Research in Developing Countries (1994-2000). In total, he published 257 papers in national and international journals/symposia and edited nine books.
Hans India
25-04-2025
- Politics
- Hans India
Steered India's space programme to new heights: PM Modi condoles demise of Kasturirangan
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday expressed grief over the demise of former ISRO chairman K. Kasturirangan, saying his visionary leadership and selfless contribution to the nation will always be remembered. Hailing Kasturirangan, PM Modi in a post on X said: "He served ISRO with great diligence, steering India's space programme to new heights, for which we also received global recognition. His leadership also witnessed ambitious satellite launches and focused on innovation." The Prime Minister said he was "deeply saddened" by Kasturirangan's death, who was "a towering figure in India's scientific and educational journey. His visionary leadership and selfless contribution to the nation will always be remembered". Expressing condolence, Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy stated, "I am deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Padma Vibhushan Dr. Kasturirangan, a proud son of India, renowned space scientist, former Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation, and Chairperson of the National Education Policy (NEP 2020) draft Committee." Minister of State (Independent Charge) Science and Technology, Earth Sciences and Minister of State for PMO, Atomic Energy, Space, Jitendra Singh and RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat also expressed grief over Kasturirangan's demise. "Deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. K. Kasturirangan, a visionary scientist and a guiding force behind India's space programme. His contributions to ISRO and Indian science will be remembered for generations. Heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones," said MoS Singh in his post on X. Kasturirangan (84) passed away on Friday at his residence in Bengaluru. His mortal remains will be kept for public viewing at the Raman Research Institute in Bengaluru on Sunday from 10 a.m. to noon, ISRO said in a statement. Kasturirangan served as the Chairman of ISRO from 1994 to 2003 and was a Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri awardee. Kasturirangan, often referred to as the architect behind the educational reforms listed in the National Education Policy (NEP), served as the Vice-Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University and as the Chairman of the Karnataka Knowledge Commission. He was also a member of the Rajya Sabha from 2003 to 2009 and a member of the Planning Commission of India.
Hans India
25-04-2025
- Science
- Hans India
Former ISRO Chairman K. Kasturirangan Passes Away at 84
K. Kasturirangan, former chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), passed away on Friday morning at his residence in Bengaluru. He was 84 years old. According to an official statement from ISRO, he died at 10:43 AM. His body will be kept for public homage at the Raman Research Institute, Bengaluru, on Sunday, April 27, between 10 AM and 12 noon. A Legacy in Space and Education Kasturirangan served as the head of: ISRO The Space Commission The Department of Space He led these institutions for over nine years before stepping down on August 27, 2003. Contributions to Space Science He was the Project Director of India's first Earth observation satellites: Bhaskara I and II. As Director of the ISRO Satellite Centre, he led the development of satellites like INSAT-2, IRS-1A/1B, and others. He played a key role in the PSLV and GSLV launch programs. A Visionary in Education and Policy Apart from space research, Kasturirangan also contributed to education reform He was the architect of India's National Education Policy (NEP) He served as Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University He chaired the Karnataka Knowledge Commission He was also a Rajya Sabha member (2003–2009) and served in the Planning Commission of India. Honors and Research Work He was an astrophysicist, known for research in high-energy X-ray and gamma-ray astronomy. He studied cosmic X-ray sources, celestial gamma rays, and their impact on Earth's atmosphere. He was awarded the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan for his remarkable contributions to science and the nation.
Mint
25-04-2025
- Science
- Mint
Former ISRO chief K. Kasturirangan passes away at 84 in Bengaluru
Dr. K. Kasturirangan, former ISRO chief and the chairperson of the drafting committee for National Education Policy (NEP), passed away in Bengaluru on Friday. He was 84 years old. A distinguished space scientist and visionary education reformer, Dr. Kasturirangan played a pivotal role in shaping both India's space program and its education landscape. '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,' PTI reported citing officials. Known as the man behind education reforms listed in NEP, Kasturirangan had served as chancellor of the Jawaharlal Nehru University and chairman of the Karnataka Knowledge Commission. He had also served as a member of the Rajya Sabha (2003–09) and as member of then Planning Commission of India. He was a distinguished space scientist and visionary education reformer. Kasturirangan was also the Director of the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bangalore from April 2004 to 2009. Key Takeaways K. Kasturirangan played a crucial role in advancing India's space program. He significantly influenced India's education landscape through the National Education Policy. His leadership extended to various prestigious institutions and committees, shaping India's future.
