Tamil Nadu Govt. fetes 9 ISRO Scientists, Announces Award of ₹2.25 Crore

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Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin recently celebrated the achievements of nine eminent space scientists from the state, including renowned figures like K Sivan and Mylswamy Annadurai, for their remarkable contributions to India’s space program. In a special event held in Chennai on 2^nd October 2023, Chief Minister Stalin announced cash awards of Rs.25 lakh for each of the scientists and unveiled plans for a scholarship program to encourage scientific innovation among postgraduate engineering students.

Honored Scientists

Among the scientist honoured were:

1. ISRO Chairman K Sivan, Chandrayaan-1 and 2
2. Project Director, Mylswamy Annadurai
3. Director of Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre- ISRO V Narayanan
4. Director of Satish Dhawan Space Centre, A Rajarajan
5. Distinguished ISRO Scientist, M Sankaran
6. Chandrayaan-3 Project Director, P Veeramuthuvel
7. ISRO’s M Vanitha
8. ISRO’s Nigar Shaji
9. ISRO-Propulsion Complex Director, J Asir Packiaraj

A Tribute to Humble Beginnings

Chief Minister Stalin highlighted the remarkable journey of these scientists, noting that six of the nine had their education in government schools in Tamil Nadu. He emphasized that they came from humble family backgrounds, were born in small towns and through education and determination, achieved personal development. These first-generation graduates serve as an inspiration for the state’s young generation to follow their dreams and excel in the field of science.

Cash Awards and Scholarships

CM Stalin made two significant announcements during the ceremony. First, a cash award of Rs.25 lakh would be granted to each of the nine scientists as a token of appreciation for their hard work and dedication. He urged them to continue bringing pride of India through their endeavors. Second, the government would establish a scholarship program in the name of renowned scientist, benefiting nine postgraduate engineering students. A corpus of Rs.10 crore would be allocated for this purpose, covering all expenditures, including tuition and hostel fees.

Eligibility for PG Scholarships

The Post Graduate scholarship programs is intended for government school students who pursued undergraduate engineering courses, benefiting from the 7.5% quota and financial assistance provided by the government during their undergraduate studies.