India woke up to a profound loss today with the passing of Dr. Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan, a towering figure whose contributions to the fields of space science and education shaped modern India in more ways than one.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the tributes, expressing deep sorrow and highlighting the legacy of a man who not only took India’s space programme to unprecedented heights but also laid the groundwork for the country’s ambitious education reforms.
“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. K. Kasturirangan,” the Prime Minister posted on X. “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.”
Indeed, under Dr. Kasturirangan’s leadership, ISRO expanded its vision and reach, launching major satellite missions and placing India firmly on the global space map. His tenure as Chairman of ISRO from 1994 to 2003 marked a golden chapter in the organization’s history. But for those who worked closely with him, it wasn’t just about the missions or the accolades it was about his calm leadership, his encouragement of young talent, and his unshakeable belief in India’s potential.
After his chapter at ISRO, Dr. Kasturirangan took on another equally challenging task reimagining India’s education system. As the chairman of the committee responsible for drafting the National Education Policy (NEP), he worked tirelessly to craft a document that aimed to break away from rote learning and bring about holistic, inclusive, and forward-looking education.
The NEP, approved in 2020, was widely praised for its emphasis on critical thinking, flexibility, and integration of Indian cultural values. In his tribute, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the nation’s gratitude-
“India will always be grateful to Dr. Kasturirangan for his efforts during the drafting of the NEP… He was also an outstanding mentor to many young scientists and researchers.”
Known for his humility and quiet dedication, Dr. Kasturirangan was a mentor to several generations of scientists and scholars. Even in his later years, he remained a guiding force in policy, science, and academia.
Today, India not only mourns a remarkable scientist and educationist, but also a true patriot whose work will continue to influence generations to come.
As messages of condolence pour in from across the nation and the scientific community worldwide, one thing is clear: Dr. K. Kasturirangan’s legacy will not fade with time it will shine on, like the satellites he once launched into orbit.
Om Shanti.