Dr. V. Narayanan, Chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Secretary of the Department of Space, was conferred with the prestigious G P Birla Memorial Award at a special ceremony held on Friday at the Bhaskara Auditorium of the B M Birla Science Centre in Hyderabad.
The award, previously known as the Lifetime Achievement Award, honours exceptional contributions in the fields of science and technology. It commemorates the legacy of Padma Bhushan G P Birla, a noted industrialist and philanthropist renowned for his commitment to education, scientific advancement, and cultural heritage. The award was presented by Smt. Nirmala Birla, Chairperson of the G P Birla Archaeological, Astronomical and Scientific Institute. The ceremony was attended by several distinguished scientists, administrators, and dignitaries, including Dr. Y. V. N. Krishnamurthy, former Director of NRSC, and Dr. Prakash Chauhan, current Director of NRSC, who served as Guests of Honour. As part of the event, Dr. Narayanan delivered the G P Birla Memorial Lecture, providing an in-depth look into the evolving landscape of space exploration and India’s growing role in international space missions. He highlighted ISRO’s future projects, advancements in satellite technology, and the agency’s focus on fostering innovation through indigenous research and global collaborations. The G P Birla Memorial Award has been previously conferred upon 32 Nobel Laureates, including Indian-born structural biologist Dr. Venkatraman Ramakrishnan, and eminent Indian figures such as Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, former President of India, Dr. Kasturirangan, former ISRO Chairman, and theoretical physicist Prof. Jogesh Pati, underscoring its significance in recognising pioneers in science and technology. The G P Birla Archaeological, Astronomical and Scientific Institute, based in Hyderabad, has long served as a platform for scientific outreach and academic exchange. Over the years, it has hosted an array of global dignitaries, including Nobel Laureates, Presidents, Prime Ministers, and Governors.
Friday’s ceremony marked another milestone in the Institute’s commitment to scientific excellence, celebrating both individual achievement and the enduring vision of G P Birla.
