‘A towering figure in India’s scientific, educational journey’, Pg12

This article reports on the passing away of Dr. K. Kasturirangan, former Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

• It highlights his significant four-decade-long career at ISRO, during which he oversaw key projects like India's first experimental earth observation satellites BHASKARA-I & II and the first operational Indian Remote Sensing satellite IRS-IA.

• He played a crucial role in the development of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and the successful flight testing of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV).

• Beyond space, Dr. Kasturirangan served as a Member of the Rajya Sabha and the Planning Commission.

• He recently chaired the drafting committee for the National Education Policy 2020 and headed the committee responsible for developing a new National Curriculum Framework.

• Dr. Kasturirangan's tenure as ISRO Chairman (1994-2003) is described as a period of significant growth and operationalization of India's space capabilities.

• His leadership was instrumental in establishing India as a key player in remote sensing and satellite launch technology.

• His involvement in national policy-making, particularly in education, showcases his broad contributions to India's development.

• He also chaired a committee that tempered the recommendations of an earlier committee regarding the declaration of the Western Ghats as an ecologically sensitive area, advocating for a more balanced approach considering the development needs of states like Kerala and Karnataka.

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Dr. K. Kasturirangan as "a towering figure in India’s scientific and educational journey".

• Recognizes the immense contributions of Dr. K. Kasturirangan to India's space program and education sector.

• Underscores the importance of visionary leadership in advancing scientific and technological capabilities.

• Highlights the interconnectedness of science, technology, and education in national development.

• Dr. Kasturirangan's legacy should inspire future generations of scientists, engineers, and policymakers in India.

• His emphasis on both scientific excellence and societal relevance should continue to guide India's space and education initiatives.

• The successful implementation of the National Education Policy 2020, for which he laid the groundwork, will be a testament to his vision.

Mains Mock Question:

Discuss the multifaceted contributions of Dr. K. Kasturirangan to India's scientific and educational progress. How did his work in space technology and education policy shape India's development trajectory?