Steered India's space programme to new heights: PM Modi condoles demise of Kasturirangan

IANS April 25, 2025 178 views

Dr. K. Kasturirangan was a pivotal figure in India's scientific and educational landscape, serving as ISRO chairman from 1994 to 2003. His visionary leadership propelled India's space programme to international recognition, earning multiple prestigious national awards. Beyond space research, he played a crucial role in drafting the National Education Policy, leaving an indelible mark on scientific and academic spheres. His passing at 84 marks the end of an era for Indian scientific innovation.

"He served ISRO with great diligence, steering India's space programme to new heights" - PM Narendra Modi
New Delhi, April 25: 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.

Key Points

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Pioneering ISRO chairman who transformed India's space research

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Instrumental in drafting National Education Policy 2020

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Padma Vibhushan awardee with distinguished scientific career

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Remembered for global recognition of India's space achievements

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.

Reader Comments

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Priya K.
A true legend of Indian science! His contributions to ISRO and education will inspire generations to come. Rest in power, Dr. Kasturirangan. 🚀
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Rahul S.
While I admire his scientific contributions, I wish we could have seen faster implementation of the NEP reforms he championed. Still, a remarkable life of service to the nation.
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Ananya M.
The man who put India on the global space map! Remember watching PSLV launches under his leadership as a kid - those were proud moments for every Indian.
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Sanjay P.
His work on NEP 2020 will transform Indian education for decades. What a multifaceted genius - space scientist, educator, policymaker. We need more leaders like him.
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Neha T.
Heartbreaking news. Met him once at a science conference - so humble despite his achievements. His passion for space education was contagious. Condolences to his family.
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Vikram R.
The golden era of ISRO! His leadership gave us missions that made the world take notice of India's space capabilities. End of an era indeed.

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Tags:
K. Kasturirangan ISRO Indian Space Research Organisation Narendra Modi Space Science National Education Policy
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