List of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has played a pivotal role in India’s space exploration journey, catapulting the nation to new heights in space technology and research. Central to ISRO’s success are the visionary leaders who have helmed the organization as Chairmen.

Here information about ISRO Chairman List, shedding light on the notable individuals who have led ISRO and some interesting facts about them.

What is ISRO?

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is the premier space agency of the Government of India, dedicated to space research, satellite development, and space exploration missions. Established in 1969, ISRO has emerged as a key player in the global space arena, renowned for its cost-effective yet technologically advanced solutions.

With a diverse portfolio of achievements including satellite launches, lunar exploration missions, and interplanetary probes, ISRO has propelled India to the forefront of space technology. The organization’s mission encompasses scientific research, communication, navigation, earth observation, and space exploration, with a vision to harness space technology for societal benefit and national development.

Through its pioneering efforts, ISRO has significantly contributed to India’s progress in fields such as telecommunications, agriculture, disaster management, and weather forecasting, while also fostering international collaboration and cooperation in space exploration.

Also Check: ISRO Full Form

ISRO Chairman

The Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is the head of the organization, responsible for providing leadership, strategic direction, and management oversight. The ISRO Chairman is typically a renowned scientist or engineer with extensive experience in space research, technology development, and administration.

They play a crucial role in guiding ISRO’s activities, shaping its vision for the future, and representing the organization at national and international forums. The Chairman works closely with the Government of India, scientific institutions, and industry partners to advance India’s space program and achieve its goals in space exploration, satellite development, and space science research.

Also Check: GK Questions on ISRO

ISRO Chairman List

The ISRO Chairmen have played instrumental roles in shaping ISRO’s journey and contributing to India’s advancements in space technology and exploration. Here is list of the ISRO Chairman:

1. Dr. Vikram Sarabhai (1963-1971):
   • Dr. Vikram Sarabhai is widely regarded as the “Father of the Indian Space Program.”
   • He played a pivotal role in establishing ISRO and laying the foundation for India’s space research initiatives.
   • Dr. Sarabhai’s visionary leadership set the stage for ISRO’s remarkable journey of success.
2. Prof. M. G. K. Menon (Jan 1972-Sep 1972):
   • He gained prominence primarily for his research on cosmic rays and particle physics, with a specific focus on the high-energy interactions of elementary particles.
3. Prof. Satish Dhawan (1972-1984):
   • Prof. Satish Dhawan served as the second Chairman of ISRO and made significant contributions to India’s space program.
   • He led the successful launch of India’s first satellite, Aryabhata, in 1975.
   • Prof. Dhawan’s expertise and leadership propelled ISRO to new heights during his tenure.
4. Prof. Udupi Ramachandra Rao (1984-1994):
   • Prof. U.R. Rao was a renowned space scientist and engineer who served as the Chairman of ISRO during a period of significant growth and expansion.
   • He spearheaded several successful satellite launches and played a key role in the development of India’s indigenous satellite technology.
   • Prof. Rao’s leadership laid the groundwork for ISRO’s emergence as a global space powerhouse.
5. Dr. K. Kasturirangan (1994-2003):
   • Dr. K. Kasturirangan is a distinguished space scientist who served as the Chairman of ISRO during a critical phase of development and modernization.
   • Under his leadership, ISRO achieved several milestones, including the successful launch of India’s first operational satellite, INSAT-2A.
   • Dr. Kasturirangan’s strategic vision and scientific expertise played a pivotal role in shaping ISRO’s trajectory.
6. Dr. G. Madhavan Nair (2003-2009):
   • Dr. G. Madhavan Nair is a renowned aerospace engineer who served as the Chairman of ISRO during a period of remarkable progress and innovation.
   • He oversaw the successful launch of India’s first lunar probe, Chandrayaan-1, in 2008.
   • Dr. Nair’s leadership and innovation strengthened ISRO’s position as a global leader in space exploration.
7. Dr. K. Radhakrishnan (2009-2014):
   • Dr. K. Radhakrishnan is a distinguished scientist and engineer who served as the Chairman of ISRO during a period of significant achievements and milestones.
   • He led the successful launch of Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan), India’s first interplanetary mission to Mars, in 2013.
   • Dr. Radhakrishnan’s visionary leadership and strategic planning propelled ISRO to new heights of success.
8. Mr. A. S. Kiran Kumar (2015-2018):
   • Mr. A. S. Kiran Kumar is an eminent space scientist who served as the Chairman of ISRO during a period of rapid technological advancements and space missions.
   • He played a key role in the successful launch of numerous satellites and space missions, including the historic Mars Orbiter Mission.
   • Mr. Kiran Kumar’s leadership and dedication further strengthened ISRO’s reputation as a global leader in space exploration.
9. Dr. K. Sivan (2018-2022):
   • Dr. K. Sivan, popularly known as the “Rocket Man of India,” is the current Chairman of ISRO.
   • Under his leadership, ISRO has achieved several significant milestones, including the successful launch of Chandrayaan-2, India’s second lunar exploration mission.
   • Dr. Sivan’s innovative approach and commitment to excellence continue to drive ISRO’s ambitious space exploration initiatives.
10. Dr. S. Somnath (2022-Present):
    • S Somanath appointed as the tenth ISRO Chief on January 12, 2022, by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC).
    • Under his leadership, ISRO accomplished the successful landing of Chandrayaan-3 on the Moon on August 23, 2023.
    • This achievement positions India as the fourth nation worldwide to achieve a successful lunar landing.

ISRO Chairman Salary

As per the seventh central pay commission report, the ISRO Chairman’s salary is Rs. 2 lakh per month inclusive of accommodation and Rs. 3 lakh per month without accommodation. Additionally, the ISRO Chairman is entitled to various perks and benefits as per government policies.

Conclusion

The ISRO Chairman List showcases the exceptional leadership and visionary guidance provided by eminent scientists and engineers who have steered ISRO on its path of success. Their contributions have been instrumental in transforming India’s space program into a global force to reckon with.