Source: IndianExpress
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Vikram Sarabhai, the father of India’s space programme, died on December 30, 1971, in Kovalam, Kerala, at the age of 52.
Born on August 12, 1919, in Ahmedabad to Ambalal Sarabhai and Sarla Devi who were renowned industrialists in the textile sector.
Displayed an innate knack for innovation by creating a working train engine model at the age of 15, housed today at the Community Science Centre in Ahmedabad.
Studied physics and mathematics at Cambridge University with a recommendation from Rabindranath Tagore.
Returned to India during World War II, completing post-graduation at the Indian Institute of Science (under Nobel laureate Dr. C.V. Raman.
Returned to Cambridge post-war to earn his PhD in cosmic rays.
Married Mrinalini Swaminathan an Indian classical dancer.
Established the Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad in 1947 a precursor to ISRO.
In 1962, he founded the Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR) which later evolved into the Indian Space Research Organisation.
He was instrumental in setting up the Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station in Kerala from where India's first rocket was launched in 1963.
In 1969, founded the Indian Space Research Organisation to harness space technology for societal development.
Initiated the Satellite Instructional Television Experiment in collaboration with NASA, using satellites for rural education. Although he did not live to see its implementation, SITE became operational in 1975.
Championed the launch of the first sounding rocket from Thumba, Kerala in 1967.
He initiated the project for fabricating and launching an Indian satellite resulting in the successful launch of Aryabhata, India's first satellite in 1975 from a Russian cosmodrome.
Took over as chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission in 1966 after Homi Bhabha’s demise.
His interdisciplinary approach also led to the establishment of institutions like the Fast Breeder Test Reactor in Kalpakkam and the Electronics Corporation of India Limited in Hyderabad.
Advocated the “decade profile” to promote nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.
SITE beamed educational content to remote villages including farmer-centric programs like Krishi Darshan.
Established the Community Science Centre to encourage experimental learning among children.
Co-founded in 1961, Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad has become one of India's premier business schools.
Founded Sarabhai Chemicals and the Operations Research Group blending science with business.
Vikram A Sarabhai Community Science Centre established in the 1960s to promote science education among students and the general public.
Operations Research Group, India's first market research organization reflecting Sarabhai's diverse interests beyond pure science.
Sarabhai emphasized independent thinking and creativity. His approach fostered an environment where children and researchers alike were encouraged to find innovative solutions to real-world problems.
Envisioned technology as a tool for addressing societal challenges such as education, agriculture and healthcare.
Combined scientific rigor with entrepreneurial spirit to create sustainable solutions.
Sarabhai established 38 institutions spanning space research, nuclear science, management and performing arts.
Former President Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam referred to him as the "Mahatma Gandhi of Indian Science."
The Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre in Thiruvananthapuram, a leading facility for launch vehicle development is named in his honor.
He was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1966 and the Padma Vibhushan posthumously in 1972.
Laid the groundwork for India’s Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan missions.
Established India as a formidable player in space technology and nuclear science.
Used technology to bridge gaps in education and agriculture fostering rural development.
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PRACTICE QUESTION Q.Discuss how Vikram Sarabhai’s vision for India’s space program integrated technological self-reliance and societal development. Examine the role of his initiatives in shaping modern India’s scientific landscape. 250 Words. |
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