Dr K Kasturirangan: A stellar vision rooted in Indian dreams

The irreparable loss of Dr Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan (1940-2025) has cast a shadow of gloom over members of India’s scientific and intellectual community. He was not only a famous astrophysicist and a visionary space leader, but also a reformer who had brought about transformation of the education sector.

Dr Kasturirangan elevated India’s ambitions to global prominence. His life’s work—blending cosmic exploration with empowerment of future generations—exemplifies how one individual’s foresight can redefine a nation’s growth trajectory. Dr Kasturirangan’s legacy, which is deeply rooted in Indian values and culture, continues to inspire and guide the nation as a prominent beacon of light towards greater goals.

Raised in Ernakulam, Kerala, Dr Kasturirangan was nurtured in a family that cherished knowledge. His father’s constant encouragement to pursue intellectual excellence shaped his early years. He completed his Bachelor’s degree with Honours and earned a Master’s degree in Physics from Bombay University and followed it up with a doctorate in Experimental High Energy Astronomy from the Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad in 1971. This robust academic journey fuelled his passion for unravelling the secrets of the universe and applying science as a cornerstone for society’s progress.

Dr Kasturirangan’s tenure at the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) was a defining chapter in India’s technological ascent. As Director of the ISRO Satellite Centre from 1990 to 1994, he led the development of groundbreaking spacecraft, including the INSAT-2 series for telecommunications and the Indian Remote-Sensing (IRS) satellites for environmental and resource monitoring.

These initiatives strengthened India’s infrastructure—enabling advancements in agriculture, disaster preparedness and connectivity—and firmly positioned the nation as a leader in space technology.

As ISRO Chairman from 1994 to 2003, Dr Kasturirangan transformed India into a global space powerhouse. His blend of scientific insight and strategic leadership revolutionized ISRO’s capabilities. The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), perfected under his stewardship, became a cost-effective and reliable launcher, deploying satellites for weather forecasting, communication and remote sensing. Its affordability attracted international clients, enhancing India’s reputation in the global space arena. Dr Kasturirangan’s vision ensured that ISRO’s innovations served both national needs and global markets.

Dr Kasturirangan’s ambitions transcended terrestrial boundaries. He was the driving force behind India’s first lunar mission, Chandrayaan-1, launched in 2008. Chandrayaan-1’s discovery of water molecules on the Moon caught the world’s attention and highlighted India’s scientific prowess. He also laid the foundation for India’s Mars Orbiter Mission, Mangalyaan. This mission, in 2013, made India the first Asian nation to orbit Mars.

These achievements were not merely technological milestones, but alswo powerful symbols of India’s determination and ingenuity. Dr Kasturirangan’s leadership enabled ISRO’s satellites, such as the INSAT and IRS, to become vital tools for rural development, disaster management and national connectivity.

Beyond space, Dr Kasturirangan’s commitment to India’s progress shone in education and public service. After leaving ISRO, he served in the Rajya Sabha (2003-2009) and the Planning Commission, championing science and education as catalysts for growth. His crowning achievement was leading the formulation of the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020, a revolutionary framework that re-imagines Indian education. By emphasizing creativity, problem-solving and holistic development over rote learning, NEP, 2020, equips students to navigate a rapidly changing world. This policy reflects Dr Kasturirangan’s belief that education is the bedrock of a thriving nation.

Beyond his accomplishments, Dr Kasturirangan’s impact extends to the inspiration that he sparked. A mentor to countless young minds, he ignited a passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) through his humility and collaborative approach. His ability to cultivate talent and foster innovation left a lasting imprint on institutions and individuals.

As India streaks a prominent path in space exploration and redefines its educational landscape, Dr Kasturirangan’s contributions remain a guiding light. His passing is a moment of deep sorrow, but his vision—etched in lunar discoveries, Martian orbits and empowered classrooms—will endure. Dr Kasturirangan was a pioneer who transformed bold aspirations into tangible realities, charting a luminous path for India’s future.

( Girish Linganna of this article is an award-winning Science Writer and a Defence, Aerospace & Political Analyst based in Bengaluru. He is also Director of ADD Engineering Components, India, Pvt. Ltd, a subsidiary of ADD Engineering GmbH, Germany. You can reach him at: [e-mail])