Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru
Bengaluru, Apr 25: Dr K Kasturirangan, former chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and a decorated scientist who played a pivotal role in shaping India’s space and education policies, passed away on Friday morning at his residence in Bengaluru. He was 84.
In a statement, ISRO confirmed that Dr Kasturirangan breathed his last at 10.43 am. His mortal remains will be kept for public homage at the Raman Research Institute in Bengaluru on Sunday between 10 am and noon.
A Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Shri awardee, Dr Kasturirangan helmed ISRO from 1994 to 2003 and oversaw several landmark missions that elevated India’s stature in global space exploration. He later played a key role in drafting the National Education Policy (NEP 2020), which was hailed as a transformative step for India’s education system.
Apart from his space achievements, Dr Kasturirangan served as the vice-chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University, chairman of the Karnataka Knowledge Commission, member of the Planning Commission of India, and Rajya Sabha MP from 2003 to 2009.
Union minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H D Kumaraswamy expressed deep sorrow over the demise of a man he described as a "proud son of India" and a ‘guiding force’ during his tenure as Karnataka’s Chief Minister.
“I shared a very close bond with him. His support and advice were invaluable to the development of the state. He contributed immensely to Bengaluru in the fields of environment, education, science, and technology,” said Kumaraswamy.
He hailed Dr Kasturirangan's legacy in space science, adding, “He was a driving force behind many of India's major achievements in space exploration.”
Union Minister Jitendra Singh, who oversees the space and science portfolios, also paid glowing tributes, stating, “Dr Kasturirangan was a visionary scientist and a guiding force behind India’s space programme. His legacy will inspire generations.”
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat too offered condolences, calling him ‘a bright star of India’s national life.’ He added, “While paying tribute to this great patriot, we pray the Almighty to grant a place to the holy soul in His lotus feet. Om Shanti.”
Dr Kasturirangan’s passing marks the end of an era in India’s scientific and educational advancement, with tributes pouring in from across the nation for a life dedicated to public service, innovation, and national development.