Padma Bhushan Dr Koppillil Radhakrishnan, is an Indian space scientist, par excellence. He is currently the Honorary Distinguished Adviser at the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).
Between November 2009 and December 2014, Dr Radhakrishnan served as Chairman of ISRO. Over these years he was the catalyst for 37 space missions that were executed by a 16,000 strong TEAM ISRO.
While at ISRO, Dr Radhakrishnan conceived, planned and executed Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM; also known as Mangalyaan). With that, India established itself as the first country to have a successful mission to Mars in its maiden attempt. And at a significantly lower cost. Making India proud.
The other landmarks during his innings at ISRO included: successful operational flights of the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle; as well as the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle. Sterling achievements.
Dr Radhakrishnan is a benchmark institution-builder. His differentiating leadership skills are those of an effective coach, counsellor, facilitator, and motivator. A unique balance of left-brain and right-brain thinking.
Prior to ISRO, Dr Radhakrishnan served as Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, National Remote Sensing Agency, and Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services. He left remarkable footprints.
As a statesman, Dr Radhakrishnan has served as Chairman on numerous professional governmental bodies. With distinction.
In 2000, Dr Radhakrishnan earned his Doctorate from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur, for his thesis: Some Strategies for the Management of Indian Earth Observation System. His external guide was Prof Satish Dhawan, Chairman, Space Commission. Thereafter, he has also been conferred Honorary Doctorates from 12 Indian universities.
In addition to brilliance in science and space, Dr Radhakrishnan is an accomplished Carnatic music vocalist, as well as a Kathakali dancer.
A total human.
We salute Dr K Radhakrishnan, our Qimpro Platinum Standard 2018 for Business.