Dr. Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan (1940–2025) was a distinguished scientist, visionary policymaker, and reformer whose contributions to India’s space program and education system had a far-reaching impact on the nation’s economic trajectory. As a renowned astrophysicist, former chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and the principal architect of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, his work laid the foundation for innovation, skill development, and global competitiveness.
Driving Technological and Economic Advancement through ISRO
During his leadership at ISRO from 1994 to 2003, Dr. Kasturirangan oversaw a period of unprecedented progress in India’s space capabilities. He played a central role in the development and operational success of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). The PSLV became a reliable launch platform for deploying satellites into low Earth orbit, facilitating vital remote sensing and Earth observation applications. Meanwhile, the GSLV enabled India to independently launch heavier payloads into geosynchronous orbit, boosting the country’s capabilities in telecommunications, navigation, and meteorology.
Under his stewardship, India expanded its satellite infrastructure through the Indian National Satellite System (INSAT) for communications and meteorological services, and the Indian Remote Sensing (IRS) series for Earth observation. Notable missions such as IRS-1C and IRS-1D set global benchmarks for civilian remote sensing, while ocean monitoring satellites like IRS-P3 and IRS-P4 strengthened India’s maritime surveillance and resource management.
Dr. Kasturirangan also initiated key steps toward India’s first lunar mission, Chandrayaan-1, which significantly elevated the country’s status in global space exploration. His vision for the GSLV Mk III, India’s heavy-lift launch vehicle, paved the way for the country to deploy large communication satellites without relying on foreign agencies. This not only enhanced national self-reliance but also improved the commercial prospects of Antrix Corporation, ISRO’s commercial arm, by enabling India to offer competitive satellite launch services to international clients.
Reforming Education for a Modern Economy
Beyond science and technology, Dr. Kasturirangan left a lasting legacy in education. As chair of the committee that drafted NEP 2020, he spearheaded reforms designed to align India’s education system with the needs of a dynamic, knowledge-driven economy. The policy replaced the longstanding 10+2 format with a new 5+3+3+4 framework, promoting age-appropriate learning across four developmental stages.
NEP 2020 emphasized holistic and multidisciplinary education, introducing vocational training from as early as Grade 6 to equip students with both academic and practical skills. It also moved away from rigid exam systems, advocating for continuous and competency-based assessments and offering multiple entry and exit options. By encouraging interdisciplinary learning and critical thinking, the policy sought to make students more adaptable and employment-ready, especially in sectors such as information technology, manufacturing, and services. These reforms aim to bridge the gap between education and industry, enhancing both employability and productivity.
Championing Science and Policy for Economic Development
Dr. Kasturirangan’s contributions extended into the realms of governance and public policy. As a member of the Planning Commission and the Rajya Sabha between 2003 and 2009, he consistently advocated for science and technology as pillars of economic development. His work at institutions like the National Institute of Advanced Studies and the Raman Research Institute helped foster a robust research ecosystem, encouraging innovation and supporting the growth of technology-driven industries and startups.
His contributions were widely recognized, earning him some of India’s highest civilian honors, including the Padma Vibhushan. These accolades reflect not just his scientific excellence, but also his transformative impact on India’s socio-economic development.
Conclusion
Dr. K. Kasturirangan’s legacy is one of visionary leadership that seamlessly bridged science, education, and policy. His initiatives in space technology reduced dependency on foreign systems, lowered costs, and positioned India as a key global player. His educational reforms, meanwhile, are empowering a generation of learners and workers ready to meet the challenges of a modern economy. Together, these contributions continue to guide India’s journey toward becoming a knowledge-based and innovation-driven economic powerhouse.
