Padma Bhushan Awardee and ISRO Scientist Dr. Eknath Basant Chitnis Passes Away
Missile Man Kalam’s Mentor And ISRO Scientist Dr. Eknath Basant Chitnis Passes Away: Renowned Indian space scientist Dr. Eknath Basant Chitnis, a key architect of India’s early space program, passed away on Wednesday (October 22) at his residence in Pune following a heart attack. He had been unwell for the past few days, according to family members. Dr. Chitnis, who would have turned 100 on Tuesday, leaves behind a rich legacy of scientific excellence and national service. His passing marks the end of an era for the Indian space community.
Dr. Chitnis played a pivotal role in the formation of the Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR), which later evolved into the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO). He was instrumental in selecting Thumba in Kerala as India’s first rocket launch site in the 1960s — a decision that shaped the nation’s space journey. From 1981 to 1985, he served as the Director of ISRO’s Space Applications Center (SAC) in Ahmedabad, where he spearheaded vital projects in satellite and space technology that contributed immensely to India’s scientific advancement.
A close associate of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the father of India’s space program, Dr. Chitnis continued to uphold and expand Sarabhai’s vision even after his passing. He was also the mentor of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, guiding the young scientist who would later become India’s “Missile Man” and President. Honored with the Padma Bhushan, Dr. Chitnis was known for his humility and his lifelong dedication to nurturing young scientific talent — a legacy that continues to inspire generations in India’s pursuit of excellence in space research.
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