India’s scientific bodies, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), are spearheading large-scale national events throughout the year to honor the 100th birth anniversary of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai. These diverse events aim to celebrate his tireless contributions and pioneering role in ushering India into the realm of space research and nuclear technology.
Remembering Dr. Vikram Sarabhai
Born on 12th August 1919, Dr. Vikram Ambalal Sarabhai was instrumental in establishing the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) in Ahmedabad in 1947. Fondly remembered as the father of the Indian space programme, Sarabhai’s vision encompassed not just technological advancements, but the application of these advancements for societal benefit.
Sarabhai continued his contributions to Indian science and research by setting up the first rocket launching station in India, located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. This was a significant milestone which set the pace for India’s future space explorations.
His relentless pursuit of knowledge and innovation led him to be appointed as the chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission of India after the demise of physicist Homi Bhabha in 1966. For his invaluable contributions, Sarabhai was bestowed with two of India’s highest honors, the Padma Bhushan in 1966, and the Padma Vibhushan posthumously in 1972.
Year-Long Celebrations: Honoring the Legacy
The celebrations to mark his 100th birth anniversary commenced in his birthplace, Ahmedabad, on 12th August, 2019. Akin to the journeys embarked upon by Sarabhai himself, these commemorative events will culminate exactly one year later at the first rocket launching station he established in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
In a fitting tribute to Sarabhai’s contributions to space research, ISRO has announced the ‘Vikram Sarabhai Journalism Award in Space Science, Technology and Research.’ This award is set up as part of the centenary celebrations and recognizes journalistic excellence in the field.
The Department of Atomic Energy: Continuing the Legacy of Sarabhai
The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) was established on August 3, 1954, under the direct charge of the Prime Minister. The Atomic Energy Commission (AEC), initially set up as part of the Department of Scientific Research in August 1948, was subsequently placed under the purview of DAE. The Secretary to the Government of India in the Department of Atomic Energy is the ex-officio Chairman of the Commission.
The DAE has been an integral entity in developing nuclear power technology, applications of radiation technologies in fields of agriculture, medicine, and industry along with conducting basic research. This aligns with Sarabhai’s vision of leveraging scientific advancements for societal benefits.
Indeed, through their commemorations, ISRO and DAE are not just honoring Dr. Vikram Sarabhai’s life and work, but are also reemphasizing his mission to use science and technology as tools for national development and social progress.
