Apeejayites honour the stalwart of science and education 

Apeejay College of Fine Arts (ACFA), Jalandhar, held a solemn and heartfelt condolence assembly to honour the memory of Dr. Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan—renowned scientist, former Chairman of ISRO, recipient of the Padma Vibhushan, and the chief architect of India’s National Education Policy 2020. The event brought together faculty, staff, and students to reflect on the immense contributions of this towering figure in science and education.

Dr. Kasturirangan shared a deep and meaningful association with the Apeejay Education community. He was the Chief Guest at the Founder’s Day celebrations in 2020, marking the 101st birth anniversary of the institution’s revered Founder-Chairman, Dr. Stya Paul. During his address on that memorable occasion, Dr. Kasturirangan had lauded the alignment of Apeejay’s educational practices with the NEP 2020 and praised the institution’s commitment to holistic, value-based learning.

At the condolence assembly, Principal Dr. Neerja Dhingra read a heartfelt message from Mrs. Sushma Paul Berlia, Chairperson of Apeejay Education, President of the Apeejay Stya & Svran Group, and Chancellor of Apeejay Stya University. Mrs. Berlia fondly recalled Dr. Kasturirangan’s words from 2020, where he had remarked that Dr. Stya Paul was one of India’s illustrious sons who laid the foundation of education on the bedrock of ethics and high moral values.

Dr. Dhingra highlighted Dr. Kasturirangan’s extraordinary legacy, including his transformative leadership as Chairman of ISRO, Secretary of the Department of Space, and Chairman of the Space Commission. Under his stewardship, India achieved numerous milestones in space exploration, including the development and deployment of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and the Geostationary Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). A particularly notable achievement during his tenure was the successful launch of Chandrayaan-1, India’s maiden mission to the Moon, which marked a defining moment in the country’s space programme.

She also shared Dr. Kasturirangan’s deep admiration for Mrs. Berlia, quoting him as saying, “Mrs. Berlia is herself an accomplished and distinguished personality whose creative ideas and work are making a significant impact across all sections of society.”

The condolence assembly concluded with a moment of silence, observed in reverence for the visionary leader whose life and work continue to inspire generations. Apeejay College of Fine Arts reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the ideals of education, ethics, and innovation that Dr. Kasturirangan championed throughout his remarkable journey.