K. Kasturirangan
Indian Space Scientist and Former Chairman of ISRO
🌍 Indian · Born October 24, 1940
About
Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan is an eminent Indian space scientist who headed the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) from 1994 to 2003. Born in Ernakulam, Kerala, he has made monumental contributions to India's space program and its education sector. Under his leadership, ISRO successfully launched the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), positioning India as a major spacefaring nation. He also oversaw the development of India's IRS-1C and IRS-1D earth observation satellites. Beyond his contributions to space technology, Kasturirangan has played a pivotal role in shaping India's educational landscape. He chaired the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 drafting committee, which laid the framework for transformative reforms in the Indian schooling and higher education systems. He has served as a member of the upper house of India's Parliament, the Rajya Sabha, and was a member of the now-defunct Planning Commission of India. Kasturirangan is a recipient of India's three highest civilian honors: the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan. He is also a member of several prestigious scientific academies in India and abroad, including the Pontifical Academy of Sciences. He continues to be an influential voice in Indian science, technology, and public policy.
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Awarded Padma Shri
Received the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award, for his contributions to science and engineering.
Appointed ISRO Chairman
Took charge as the Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation and Secretary of the Department of Space.
Awarded Padma Vibhushan
Received India's second-highest civilian honor, the Padma Vibhushan, for his extraordinary service in space research.
Nominated to Rajya Sabha
Nominated as a Member of Parliament in the upper house (Rajya Sabha) by the President of India.
Joined Planning Commission
Appointed as a member of the Planning Commission of India, overseeing science, technology, and state plans.
Chaired NEP Committee
Appointed as the Chairman of the Committee for Draft National Education Policy.
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All data sourced from verified public references.
Kasturirangan: The man who helmed space program and NEP draft
The Indian Express
https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-sci-tech/k-kasturirangan-health-update-isro-nep-8824103/ →