Wed Oct 22 11:25:08 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summarized news article based on the provided text, formatted for a news outlet like The Hindu:
Summary of Text:
The text is a news report from The Hindu announcing the death of renowned Indian space scientist Eknath Vasant Chitnis on October 22, 2025, in Pune at the age of 100. The article highlights his significant contributions to the early years of India’s space program, particularly his role in selecting the Thumba launch site and his directorship at ISRO’s Space Applications Centre. He was a Padma Bhushan recipient and a key associate of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai. He also mentored Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. He is survived by his son, daughter-in-law, and two granddaughters.
News Article:
Pioneer of Indian Space Program, Eknath Vasant Chitnis, Passes Away at 100
Pune, October 22, 2025: Renowned Indian space scientist Eknath Vasant Chitnis passed away peacefully at his residence in Pune today, October 22, 2025. He was 100 years old.
Dr. Chitnis, a Padma Bhushan recipient, had been unwell in recent days and succumbed to a heart attack this morning, according to family members.
A pivotal figure in the nascent stages of India’s space ambitions, Dr. Chitnis played a crucial role within the Indian National Committee for Space Research (INCOSPAR), the precursor to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). His contributions were instrumental in shaping the foundation of India’s space program. Notably, he was instrumental in selecting the site for India’s first rocket launch at Thumba, Kerala.
From 1981 to 1985, Dr. Chitnis served as the second director of ISRO’s Space Applications Centre (SAC) in Ahmedabad, further solidifying his legacy within the organization.
He was one of the last surviving associates of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the visionary widely regarded as the father of India’s space program. In addition to his groundbreaking work, Dr. Chitnis is also credited with mentoring the then-budding scientist Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.
Dr. Chitnis is survived by his son, Dr. Chetan Chitnis, daughter-in-law Amika, and granddaughters Tarini and Chandini. His passing marks the end of an era for India’s scientific community, remembering a pioneer who helped propel the nation into the realm of space exploration.
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