Dr. Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan, a distinguished figure in India’s space exploration history, passed away on April 25, 2025, at the age of 84. His contributions to India's space program, particularly during his tenure as the Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), revolutionized the country's space exploration capabilities. Dr. Kasturirangan also played a pivotal role in the creation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, significantly influencing India's educational landscape.

Key Points:

• Pioneering Space Scientist: Dr. Kasturirangan served as the Chairman of ISRO from 1994 to 2003, overseeing key milestones such as the successful launch of India's first lunar mission, Chandrayaan-1, and the development of key launch vehicles like the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV).
• National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: He was instrumental in the drafting of the National Education Policy 2020, which aims to make India’s education system more holistic, inclusive, and multidisciplinary. His work on NEP has helped shape the educational framework for the future generations of India.
• Awards and Recognition: Dr. Kasturirangan was honored with India’s highest civilian awards, including the Padma Shri (1982), Padma Bhushan (1992), and Padma Vibhushan (2000), for his exceptional contributions to space science and national development.
• Role in Academia: He was the Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University and Central University of Rajasthan and served as a member of the Rajya Sabha from 2003 to 2009, further influencing both the academic and policy spheres.
• Legacy in Space: Under his leadership, ISRO made substantial advances, including the successful launch of key satellites and the development of indigenous space technologies, cementing India’s place as a leading player in global space exploration.

About Dr. Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan

Dr. Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan, born on October 24, 1940, in Kerala, was a renowned astrophysicist and the former Chairman of ISRO from 1994 to 2003. He played a pivotal role in India’s space advancements, including leading the Chandrayaan-1 mission and developing key space launch vehicles like PSLV and GSLV. Dr. Kasturirangan also chaired the committee that created the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, shaping India’s education system. He was honored with prestigious awards like the Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan for his contributions. His passing on April 25, 2025, marks the loss of a visionary leader who significantly impacted both India’s space exploration and educational reforms.