Vikram Sarabhai: Father of India’s space programme

Vikram Ambalal Sarabhai, often referred to as the father of India’s space programme, was a visionary scientist, industrialist and institution-builder who laid the foundation for India’s remarkable journey into space exploration.

Born on August 12, 1919, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, into an affluent family, Sarabhai enjoyed a privileged upbringing. His parents, Ambalal and Sarala Devi, were prominent industrialists who fostered a culture of intellectual curiosity and social responsibility in their children.

Sarabhai pursued his education at Gujarat College in Ahmedabad before moving to England to study at the University of Cambridge. He earned a tripos in natural sciences in 1940 and later returned to Cambridge to complete his PhD in Cosmic Ray Physics in 1947 after a brief interruption during World War II.

Upon his return to India, Sarabhai recognised the importance of harnessing science and technology for national development. His passion for research led him to establish the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) in Ahmedabad in 1947, which became a hub for advanced studies in physics and space science.

Sarabhai’s vision for India’s space programme was both ambitious and pragmatic. He believed that space technology could address the socio-economic challenges of a developing nation like India. In 1962, he played a pivotal role in founding the Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR), which later evolved into the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

Under Sarabhai’s leadership, ISRO launched its first major project, the establishment of the Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station (TERLS) in Kerala. In 1963, India successfully launched its first rocket, marking the beginning of its space exploration journey. Sarabhai’s efforts also paved the way for the development of indigenous satellite technology, leading to the launch of India’s first satellite, Aryabhata, in 1975.

Sarabhai’s vision extended beyond space science. He played a key role in setting up several institutions that contributed to India’s scientific and industrial development. Notable among these are the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA), which he co-founded in 1961 and the Community Science Centre in Ahmedabad to popularise science education.

He also believed in the power of collaboration. He advocated international partnerships in space exploration and emphasised peaceful uses of space technology. His efforts earned India a seat at the global table in space science, laying the groundwork for ISRO's future achievements.

Tragically, Sarabhai’s life was cut short when he passed away on December 30, 1971, at the age of 52. Despite his untimely demise, his legacy lives on through the institutions he founded and the vision he articulated for India’s scientific advancement.

Recognised with numerous awards during his lifetime, including the Padma Bhushan in 1966 and the Padma Vibhushan posthumously in 1972, Vikram Sarabhai remains a towering figure in Indian science and technology. His contributions have inspired generations of scientists and leaders, making him a symbol of India’s aspirations to harness science for progress and self-reliance.

Vikram Sarabhai’s life and work stand as a testament to the transformative power of vision, determination and a commitment to the betterment of society.