Bengaluru: Dr. K. Kasturirangan, the former chairman of ISRO and a pivotal contributor to India’s New Education Policy (NEP), passed away in Bengaluru on Friday. Although he had a distinguished career in India’s space program, his most significant recent impact was in the realm of education.
He chaired the committee responsible for drafting the National Education Policy 2020, a comprehensive reform initiative designed to enhance India’s education system, making it more holistic, adaptable, and multidisciplinary.
As the principal architect of the NEP, he was instrumental in developing policies that prioritize early childhood education, a flexible curriculum, critical thinking, and a stronger focus on vocational training and regional languages.
His vision advanced Indian education towards international standards while maintaining its cultural heritage. In addition to his contributions to the NEP, Dr. Kasturirangan served as the Chancellor of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) and led the Karnataka Knowledge Commission, where he aimed to elevate the standards of higher education and research.
Dr. Kasturirangan, a distinguished astrophysicist, has made remarkable advancements in the fields of astronomy and space science. His research encompasses high-energy X-ray and gamma-ray astronomy, along with optical astronomy.
He has published over 200 research articles in prestigious international and national journals, concentrating on astronomy, space science, and space applications. Furthermore, he has edited six books, enhancing the knowledge within the discipline.
Dr. Kasturirangan has also held the position of Member of Parliament in the Rajya Sabha from 2003 to 2009 and was a member of the Planning Commission of India. In recognition of his significant contributions, he has received several of India’s most esteemed civilian awards, including the Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan.
