IISER Pune hosts centenary celebration honouring space pioneer Prof. E V Chitnis

To commemorate the legacy of Prof. Eknath Vasant Chitnis, one of the principal architects of India’s space programme, a centenary celebration conference commenced at Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Pune, today.

The event featured “India in Space” exhibition, showcasing scale models of ISRO’s launch vehicles—SLV, PSLV, GSLV and major payloads like Chandrayaan-3.

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Addressing the gathering, Dr. Sunil Bhagwat and A P Deshpande recalled Prof. Chitnis’s contributions to India’s early space programme and his commitment to science communication.

Chairman, National Centre for Science Communicators (NCSC), Dr. A P Jayaraman, set the context by tracing Prof. Chitnis’s collaborations with Dr. Vikram Sarabhai and his role in shaping indigenous satellite and launch vehicle programmes. Former SAC Director, Dr. Pramod Kale, shared personal reflections on Prof. Chitnis’s leadership and ethical guidance, while, former DECU Director, Dr. Kiran Karnik spoke of his strategic role during ISRO’s formative years.

A moving personal tribute was delivered by Dr. Chetan Chitnis, who shared rare family anecdotes and insights into Prof. Chitnis’s values and quiet strength.

Delivering the Keynote Address, Dr. A S Kiran Kumar, former ISRO Chairman, highlighted Prof. Chitnis’s institutional contributions and lasting influence on ISRO’s scientific culture. Drawing from the book “From Fishing Hamlet to Red Planet”, he underscored the depth of Prof. Chitnis’s influence on ISRO’s institutional values and scientific culture.

The inaugural session brought together eminent scientists, science communicators, students, and admirers to pay tribute to his enduring legacy. The event marked a fitting tribute to a visionary who helped lay the foundation of India’s space success and inspired generations of scientists.