Prez Murmu, VP Jagdeep Dhankhar and PM Modi express grief over passing away of Dr. Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan
New Delhi, April 25
President Droupadi Murmu has expressed grief over the passing away of Dr. Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan, an eminent figure in India’s scientific and educational journey.
In a social media post, President Murmu said that as head of ISRO, Dr. Kasturirangan played a stellar role in the evolution of the country’s space programme. She said that with his passion for knowledge, he also contributed greatly to diverse fields.
The president highlighted that Dr. Kasturirangan helped draft the National Education Policy, which is already making a profound impact on the shaping of the next generation.
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar has expressed sadness at the demise of renowned space scientist and former Chairman of ISRO, Dr Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan. In a social media post. Mr. Dhankhar said that Dr. Kasturirangan was instrumental in propelling India’s space programme to global prominence, laying the groundwork for many of its landmark achievements.
He said that he also made invaluable contributions to shaping India’s education policy and fostering a scientific temper in society. Vice President highlighted that the conferment of Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan upon Dr. Kasturirangan reflects his outstanding leadership and commitment to nation-building. Mr. Dhankhar shared condolences to his family, colleagues and admirers in this hour of grief.
rime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed grief over the passing away of Dr. K. Kasturirangan, a towering figure in India’s scientific and educational journey. In a social media post, Mr Modi said, his visionary leadership and selfless contribution to the nation will always be remembered.
The Prime Minister highlighted that Dr Kasturirangan served ISRO with great diligence, steering India’s space programme to new heights. Mr Modi added that his leadership also witnessed ambitious satellite launches and focused on innovation.
Prime Minister Modi said, India will always be grateful to Dr. Kasturirangan for his efforts during the drafting of the National Education Policy and in ensuring that learning in India became more holistic and forward-looking. Mr Modi said, he was also an outstanding mentor to many young scientists and researchers.
Former ISRO Chairman and a key architect of India’s National Education Policy, Dr. K. Kasturirangan, passed away this morning at his residence in Bengaluru.
He was 84. As Chairman of ISRO, Dr. Kasturirangan played a pivotal role in the development of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), which went on to become India’s most reliable satellite launcher. He led the Indian Space Programme for over nine years before stepping down on August 27, 2003.
Dr. Kasturirangan also served as Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University and Chairman of the Karnataka Knowledge Commission and was Director of the National Institute of Advanced Studies in Bengaluru, where he supported research and learning. He was also a Rajya Sabha member from 2003 to 2009.
Arrangements are being made for the public to pay their last respects to the renowned scientist in Bengaluru on Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 noon.