Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday expressed deep sorrow over the passing of eminent scientist and educationist Dr. K. Kasturirangan, describing him as a towering figure in India’s scientific and educational journey.
Dr. Kasturirangan, a Padma Vibhushan awardee, died at the age of 84.
In a post on X, PM Modi paid tribute to Dr. Kasturirangan’s enduring legacy in India’s space and education sectors. “I am deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. K. Kasturirangan, a towering figure in India’s scientific and educational journey. His visionary leadership and selfless contribution to the nation will always be remembered,” he wrote.
Highlighting Dr. Kasturirangan’s instrumental role in advancing India’s space programme, Modi 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 focussed on innovation.”
The Prime Minister also recalled Dr. Kasturirangan’s pivotal contribution to the formulation of India’s National Education Policy (NEP). “India will always be grateful to Dr. Kasturirangan for his efforts during the drafting of the NEP and in ensuring that learning in India became more holistic and forward-looking. He was also an outstanding mentor to many young scientists and researchers,” he said.
Dr. K. Kasturirangan was a distinguished astrophysicist and former Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). He also served as Secretary to the Government of India. Known for his expertise in high-energy X-ray and gamma-ray astronomy, he played a pivotal role in shaping India’s space program.
During his nearly decade-long tenure at ISRO, Dr. Kasturirangan was instrumental in the development of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), which went on to become the country’s most reliable satellite launch system.
From 2003 to 2009, he served as a member of the Rajya Sabha while also holding the position of Director at the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru.
Beyond space science, Dr. Kasturirangan made significant contributions to education and policy. He served as Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University, chaired the Karnataka Knowledge Commission, and led the committee responsible for drafting India’s National Education Policy, released in 2020.
