Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan, former ISRO Chairman
| Photo Credit:
MURALI KUMAR K
Former ISRO Chairman Dr K Kasturirangan, who oversaw the development of new generation spacecrafts and played a pivotal role in shaping India’s space programme, has passed away in Bengaluru. He was 84.
A distinguished scientist, Dr Kasturirangan was instrumental in overseeing several landmark projects during his tenure at ISRO from 1994 to 2003. Under his leadership, India developed and launched a new generation of satellites including the Indian National Satellite (INSAT-2) series and the Indian Remote Sensing (IRS-1A and 1B) satellites. He also guided the design, development, and launch of some of the world’s best civilian satellites, IRS-1C, and IRS-1D, and spearheaded the realisation of second-generation and initiation of third-generation INSAT satellites.
Kasturirangan was also part of the launch and operationalisation of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), which continues to be the backbone of India’s satellite launch capabilities.
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 served ISRO with great diligence, steering India’s space… pic.twitter.com/GPdFKPU7b5
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 25, 2025
He oversaw the first successful flight testing of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV), a significant step in India’s ambitions for heavier satellite launches.
His leadership also saw the launch of key ocean observation satellites, IRS-P3 and IRS-P4.
An alumnus of Bombay University, Dr Kasturirangan held a BSc (Hons) and MSc in Physics, and earned his doctorate in Experimental High Energy Astronomy from the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), Ahmedabad.
The eminent scientist has authored over 200 research papers in astronomy, space science and applications, and edited six books. He was conferred with Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan, some of India’s highest civilian honours, in recognition of his service to science and the nation.
PTI adds:
The former ISRO chief was also the chairperson of drafting committee behind the ambitious new National Education Policy (NEP).
Kasturirangan also served as the Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University and Chairman of Karnataka Knowledge Commission.
He had also served as a member of the Rajya Sabha (2003–09) and as member of then Planning Commission of India.
Kasturirangan was also the Director of the National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bangalore from April 2004 to 2009.
Published on April 25, 2025