Dr. K. Kasturirangan Passes Away

  • 26 Apr 2025

On 25th April 2025, renowned space scientist and key contributor to India’s education sector reforms, Dr. K. Kasturirangan, passed away.

  • As ISRO Chairman, he played a critical role in the development of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), which became India’s most dependable satellite launcher.
  • He led the Indian Space Programme for over nine years until his retirement from ISRO in 2003.
  • Dr. Kasturirangan was a pivotal architect of India’s National Education Policy, helping shape the vision for future learning and research.
  • He served as the Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University and led the Karnataka Knowledge Commission, advancing higher education and innovation.
  • As Director of the National Institute of Advanced Studies (NIAS, Bengaluru), he supported interdisciplinary research in science, society, and public policy.
  • He was a nominated member of the Rajya Sabha from 2003 to 2009, contributing to national policy and scientific discourse.