ISRO Women Scientists Shine in Republic Day Parade, Hosted by Dr Jitendra Singh
Bengaluru, NFAPost: In a remarkable recognition of the growing influence of women in the scientific arena, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh hosted a Republic Day reception at his residence in New Delhi for over 225 ISRO Women Scientists. The event honoured the exceptional contributions of women scientists who played a pivotal role in leading the Republic Day ISRO tableau, showcasing India’s space achievements, including Chandrayaan, Aditya L1, and recent successes that garnered global acclaim.
The ISRO tableau, a highlight of the Republic Day parade, featured an all-women contingent of eight scientists from various ISRO centres in Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Thiruvananthapuram, and Sriharikota. The contingent received enthusiastic applause from the audience, composed of 220 invited Women Scientists and their spouses.
Dr Jitendra Singh acknowledged the leadership role assumed by women in the scientific domain, particularly within the Department of Space (DoS) and ISRO. He emphasized that the achievements of the DoS and ISRO have not only advanced space exploration but have also paved the way for Indian women to excel and take on leadership roles in diverse fields.
The minister attributed this era of glory to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, acknowledging the transformative space reforms that have unshackled the sector from historical constraints.
As the ISRO tableau, themed “ISRO – Viksit Bharat Ki Pehchaan,” approached the President’s enclosure, Dr Jitendra Singh highlighted the historic moment when Chandrayaan-3 successfully landed on the moon in August of the previous year. This achievement marked India as the first and only country to land near the unexplored lunar south pole.
Dr Jitendra Singh underscored that ISRO stands as a symbol of India’s ‘Naarishakti,’ showcasing the active participation and leadership of women scientists in various space research programs. Notable figures include Ms. Nigar Shaji, the Project Director of Aditya L1 Mission, and Ms. Kalpana Kalahasti, the Associate Project Director of Chandrayaan-3.
Expressing their gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the women scientists shared their sense of honour and privilege in showcasing their achievements to the nation during the Republic Day celebrations. The warm hospitality extended to them in the national capital helped them overlook the cold winter of Delhi, they added.
The Republic Day reception not only celebrated the scientific prowess of women at ISRO but also emphasized the transformative role of women in shaping India’s space narrative.
