Latest news with #Kasturirangan
Time of India
21-05-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Chandrayaan's success owes much to Kasturirangan's 'opinion swell', says ex-ISRO chief
The success that Chandrayaan enjoys today is possible only because of the " opinion swell " created in its favour by K Kasturirangan, former chief of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), said A S Kiran Kumar , who headed ISRO between 2015 and 2018. A former colleague of Kasturirangan, Kumar, who said he had known him for more than 50 years, pointed out that it was not easy to convince the government about space missions in those days. "It required a lot of, one can say, 'opinion swell' among the scientific and technical organisations. And he deftly created scenarios and situations where people came together and talked about it," added Kumar on Wednesday, recalling his days with Kasturirangan. Play Video Play Skip Backward Skip Forward Mute Current Time 0:00 / Duration 0:00 Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 1x Playback Rate Chapters Chapters Descriptions descriptions off , selected Captions captions settings , opens captions settings dialog captions off , selected Audio Track Picture-in-Picture Fullscreen This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Text Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Caption Area Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Drop shadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Seniorinnen aus Wien lieben diesen Sommerschuh Sandalentrend Undo Kumar also recalled how Kasturirangan could think long-term. While India was moving ahead in technological aspects, scientists were often working in isolation, he said. "Kasturirangan possessed the knack to bring them together and make them work towards a common goal. This is no trivial task. We are now seeing the fruits of his tremendous capabilities. He was not only able to seed an idea but also make it work and bring it to fruition," said Kumar. Live Events A remembrance event honouring Kasturirangan was held at the Raman Research Institute (RRI), jointly organised by the RRI Trust and the Indian Academy of Sciences. More than 20 eminent speakers from Indian academia, science, education, and policymaking, including Kumar, paid tribute and shared their memories during the event. Among the speakers were Tarun Souradeep, Director of RRI, and Raghavan Varadarajan, President of the Indian Academy of Sciences. Ganesh Pillai, the newly appointed Scientific Secretary of ISRO, gave an overview of Kasturirangan's achievements that extend beyond his days at ISRO. He called Kasturirangan "a man with the Midas touch-whatever he touched flourished." Prof P Balaram, former Director of the Indian Institute of Science, and Prof V S Ramamurthy, former Secretary of the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, also spoke about their long association with the scientist. The heartfelt reflections were moderated by Jyotsna Dhawan, Chair of the RRI Trust, who also shared her personal memories of him. Brinda Nagarajan, personal secretary to Kasturirangan, spoke on behalf of his family. RRI is a premier research institution pursuing cutting-edge fundamental research in select frontier areas of physics under contemporary research themes. It was founded by Indian science Nobel Laureate Sir C V Raman in 1948.
The Hindu
21-05-2025
- Politics
- The Hindu
Environmentalists urge State govt. to reconsider Mahadayi basin projects
Members of Paryavarni Foundation, an advocacy group for environment protection, have urged the State government to reconsider the various projects planned in the Western Ghats portion of Belagavi district and surrounding areas, saying that they can lead to desertification of North Karnataka. They submitted copies of a memoranda to Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre and district in-charge Minister Satish Jarkiholi at Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary recently. They also handed over copies of research papers by IISc and the Norwegian Institute for Water Research and field study reports to the Ministers for reference. The letter said that going ahead with the Kalasa and Banduri Nala projects will lead to deforestation and negatively impact rainfall in the Khanapur region, that can result in desertification of North Karnataka. Khanapur, which is part of the Western Ghats, is known as the Cherapunji of the South due to the heavy rain it receives. The evergreen forests of the region are responsible for the rain in the catchment area of the Malaprabha. Protection of Bhimgad forests is essential to ensuring water security of Belagavi, Hubballi-Dharwad, Nargund, Navalgund, Ramdurg, Gadag and surrounding areas. The Mahadayi river which originates in the Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary is the lifeline of Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary and its associated reserve and protected forest and eco-sensitive zones of 1,000 sq km. Diverting the Mahadayi by the Banduri Nala project will stop the entire flow of the Nala into the sanctuary which will spell the death knell of the sanctuary. This diversion will have an irreversible and devastating effect on rain in Khanapur, water in Naviluteertha and push North Karnataka towards rapid desertification. 'We want to bring to your notice that Banduri, Kalasa and Haltara dams for diverting Mahadayi are located in eco-sensitive region category I, as per a report of the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. And, they have been previously recognized as the most eco-sensitive regions by the Gadgil and Kasturirangan reports,' they said. 'We request you as a well-learned engineer, techno-savvy and genuinely concerned about the protection of our forest to immediately intervene and stop the diversion of the Mahadayi in the long-term interest of saving North Karnataka from desertification and devastation,' they said. Activist Sujit Mulgund also complained that the State government is trying to divert water from the Hidkal dam to Dharwad industrial area and water from the streams of Khanapur to the twin cities of Hubballi and Dharwad through the Banduri Nala project. These can dry up Belagavi district, he said. Members Captain Nitin Dhond, Nyla Coelho, Amrut Charantimath, Geeta Sahu, Neeta Potdar, Rajiv Topannanavar and others were present along with some farmers whose land are likely to be affected by the Mahadayi basin projects. Foundation's work The foundation was started by General S.C. Sardeshpande, a war hero and environmental conservationist. The foundation has been involved in fieldwork, data collection and research for over 15 years. It has convinced the Union and State governments to declare Bhimgad as a wildlife sanctuary. 'The objective of forming the Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary was to create environmental security and water security for North Karnataka region, Khanapur and Belagavi areas. It also provides water security for Hubballi-Dharwad region because Bhimgad forest is responsible for causing rain in Khanapur and surrounding areas that are the catchment areas for the Mahadayi and the Malaprabha. Over 80% of water that collects in Naviluteertha is because of this rain. Damage to Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary will reduce rainfall in Khanapur which will ultimately result in reduction in water at Naviluteertha Dam,' they said. They have begun a movement, Save Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary, Save River Malaprabha, Save North Karnataka. The State government selected the foundation for the Parisara Mitra Award in 2011 for advocacy in getting declared Bhimgad as a wildlife sanctuary.
Time of India
30-04-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Uttar Pradesh schools directed to teach students about former ISRO chief Dr K Kasturirangan
LUCKNOW: The Uttar Pradesh government has directed all the Basic Education schools to tell students about the achievements of former ISRO chief Dr K Kasturirangan, who died on April 25 at 84. The state on Monday directed all Basic Council schools and Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas to share information about Kasturirangan's life, his scientific achievements, and contributions to educational reforms during morning assemblies, an official statement said. The schools were asked to display his portraits in schools and encourage students to adopt his life values, it said. Kasturirangan set India on the path to becoming a global force in space science and also played a transformative role in reshaping the education sector. The initiative is a part of the government's mission to raise the quality of education at every level and to ignite in students a curiosity for science, mathematics, and innovation, the directive said. Basic Education Minister Sandeep Singh said, "With the demise of the great scientist and chief architect of National Education Policy 2020 , Dr K Kasturirangan, the nation has lost a unique education thinker and nation builder. His life is a source of inspiration for all of us." "We aim to transform every school in Uttar Pradesh into a laboratory of scientists, where every child dreams of becoming the next Kasturirangan," he added. Kasturirangan, who died in Bengaluru, was the Chairperson of the drafting committee on the New National Education Policy (NEP), and had also served as the Chancellor of the Jawaharlal Nehru University and Chairman of the Karnataka Knowledge Commission . For real-time updates, follow our AP SSC 10th Result 2025 Live Blog.
Time of India
29-04-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
Students to be told about Kasturirangan's contributions during morning assembly
Lucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed all state-run schools to apprise students about the contributions of ex-Isro chief late Dr K Kasturirangan 's life, his scientific achievements, and contributions to educational reforms during morning assemblies. Kasturirangan, an eminent scientist-administrator, passed away on April 25 at the age of 84. His portrait will be displayed in schools, and students encouraged to adopt his life values. This initiative is part of the Yogi govt's mission to raise the quality of education at every level and to ignite curiosity for science, mathematics, and innovation among students, said officials. Chief architect of NEP 2020, Kasturirangan established India as a global force in space science and played a transformative role in reshaping the education sector. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Villas For Sale in Dubai Might Surprise You Villas In Dubai | Search Ads View Deals Undo "Every moment of his life stands as a lesson for children — of dreaming big and achieving greatness through dedication and hard work," said a govt spokesperson. According to officials, children are to be inspired by the spirit of 'think, explore and achieve'. "Kasturirangan's life shows that individuals from humble beginnings can achieve greatness. Inspired by this, the UP govt is encouraging school students to dream big and pursue their goals," the official said. Experts believe that with the right guidance and resources, students can become future scientists, educators and policymakers. "The most meaningful tribute to Kasturirangan is to help build the knowledge-driven India he envisioned," said the official. Basic education minister Sandeep Singh said: "The Yogi govt is committed to apprising students of the Isro chief's ideals and nurturing scientific thinking, innovation and national service in them. Our true tribute will be to dedicate ourselves to building the India of his dreams. We aim to transform all schools into a laboratory of scientists, where every child dreams of becoming the next Kasturirangan."
The Hindu
29-04-2025
- Science
- The Hindu
K. Kasturirangan (1940–2025): Architect of India's Space Programme and Education Policy Vision
Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan was a rare personality who contributed to diverse fields such as Indian space missions, national policy, environment, education, and institution-building. In Kasturirangan, we see an amalgamation of radiating passion, boundless energy and enthusiasm, and an inquisitive mind combined with an uncompromising quest to bring out the best in every initiative. He remained eager to learn new ideas, explore new areas, and take up challenging tasks across diverse fields throughout his life, while always appreciating achievements by giving due credit to teams, moulding individuals and programmes—and, above all, remaining a warm human being. It is not often that we come across a personality like Kasturirangan. The nation has lost a luminary. Fondly called 'Dr. Rangan', he belonged to the generation that witnessed the country's journey since Independence and grew along with it. With a burning desire to make the nation self-sufficient and a frontrunner in cutting-edge technology and scientific discovery, his contribution to space science programmes was unparalleled, beginning with the first Indian mission, Aryabhata, launched exactly 50 years ago. Trained in basic sciences, his journey from the Physical Research Laboratory to the highest position in the Indian Space Research Organisation was exemplary. His areas of interest included high-energy astrophysics, X-ray astronomy, and astronomical instrumentation, and he was keen to attract the best talent in the world to India to set up futuristic experiments. While becoming Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation might seem the culmination of an exemplary career spanning three and a half decades, for Rangan, it was only the beginning of a new phase of pursuit. He transformed himself from the leader of critical space missions to a policymaker, leading the committee for the conservation of the Western Ghats and subsequently the committee that drafted the National Education Policy 2020. He also served the country as a member of the Rajya Sabha. Kasturirangan personified the belief that age is just a number when it comes to new learning, new fields, and new challenges. Also Read | M.S. Swaminathan (1925-2023): A truly human life dedicated to science and society He contributed to the growth of many academic and educational institutions in the country in various ways. His guidance to several top institutions, such as the Indian Institute of Science and Jawaharlal Nehru University, reflected his passion for scientific and academic pursuits. He provided his guidance and support to almost all the institutions in the areas of astronomy, astrophysics, and space sciences by heading their governing boards. He nurtured the Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES), Nainital, for a long time, starting with its formation. Under his leadership, ARIES set up the largest telescopes in the country—the 3.4-metre telescope, the 4-metre liquid mirror telescope, and the ST radar facilities. Most of the major facilities in these fields benefited from his valuable guidance. Until recently, he chaired the governing board of the Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA). He also chaired the governing council of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics when the Institute was constructing the Ultra-Violet Imaging Telescope (UVIT) for the AstroSat mission. His leadership was crucial to the successful fabrication of UVIT, including the setting up of the space science laboratory where UVIT was integrated. This laboratory went on to integrate and deliver the VELC instrument on board the Aditya-L1 mission and currently supports several space start-ups in their payload testing. The first Indian space observatory, AstroSat, took shape under his guidance, and he personally monitored the scientific, technical, and managerial aspects of the project. He co-authored an article summarising the five-year scientific achievements of the AstroSat mission. An academician at heart, he maintained an unwavering and uncompromising approach to scientific pursuits. His energy and enthusiasm for discussing scientific topics with a passion for pushing the boundaries of understanding were unparalleled. I have had several experiences where a 10-minute discussion with him would leave me with so many thought-provoking ideas—enough to ponder over for months. He had a characteristic style of narrating situations and naturally highlighting the most critical aspects. His push to maximise scientific returns from various instruments led to the success of missions such as AstroSat, the Chandrayaan series, and Aditya-L1. With the passing of Rangan, the scientific community has lost a passionate and enthusiastic mentor. His vision for India He believed in 'Make in India' and pushed for the nation to become self-reliant in critical technologies. A visionary, he planned many futuristic missions that helped develop capacity building in the country. His hallmark was ensuring that each mission contributed to building capacity in critical technologies, alongside achieving impactful scientific output. He was a keen supporter of the Thirty Metre Telescope project and was determined that India should develop the technical know-how required. He was particularly keen for India to contribute major hardware to the project and thereby master segmented mirror technology. He was very happy to witness the setting up of a large mirror fabrication facility in India, at the Hosakote campus of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics. Rangan's contribution to the nation also included his leadership of science academies and scientific societies. He was a Fellow of the Indian Academy of Sciences, Bengaluru, and served as its President from 2003 to 2005. He was a Fellow and former President of the National Academy of Sciences, India (NASI), and a Fellow of the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) and the World Academy of Sciences (TWAS). He also headed the Astronomical Society of India as its President from 1995 to 1997. He was a member of several national and international scientific societies. Rangan was a rare combination of scientist and technologist, who could lead both ISRO and India's premier scientific academies with distinction. He provided significant leadership support to two innovative institutions. He nurtured and promoted multidisciplinary research and enhanced the visibility of the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS). He also served as Chairman of the Karnataka Knowledge Commission (KKC), which aimed to promote a knowledge society and enhance excellence in the education system. As part of the process of framing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, he carried out extensive discussions and brainstorming sessions with a wide range of stakeholders, educationists, and academicians. His exemplary, lifelong career—larger than life in many ways—is presented in the book Space and Beyond: Professional Voyage of Dr. K. Kasturirangan, edited by B.N. Suresh, which offers a glimpse into the vast contributions he made to the country. That all of this was achieved in a single human lifetime is almost unimaginable and speaks volumes about his akshayapatra of energy, enthusiasm, and drive for excellence. Rangan published more than 200 research papers in national and international journals and edited six books. Among the many honours he received were the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award for Engineering Sciences and the national honours of Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan for his scientific and technological contributions. Also Read | Remembering Ratan, the noble businessman When Rangan was Chair of the Governing Council of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), I was editing the Annual Report as a junior faculty member and had the opportunity to present it to him. He called me aside and explained the purpose and intended audience of the report, convincing me to make it more appealing to a wider readership. Later, I had several discussions with him about the scientific discoveries from the Ultra-Violet Imaging Telescope (UVIT), for which I served as the calibration scientist. He was always keen to understand not only the technical details of the work but also the broader impact of the results—not even a single minute with him went unutilised. Recently, I was thrilled to receive a letter from him personally congratulating me on being selected for the Vigyan Shri award for 2024 in space sciences and technology. Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan has left behind a monumental legacy and has set very high standards. He will be missed by numerous organisations, academicians, educationists, policymakers, and the list goes on. Many of us will surely miss the intense conversations with him, which acted as boosters to our own scientific pursuits. There are countless lessons he provided for us to learn and imbibe in our journeys. The nation has lost an illustrious and visionary space scientist—one who truly conquered space and beyond. Annapurni Subramaniam is a Indian astrophysicist and the current Director of the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA)
