
Fri Jan 30 17:39:17 UTC 2026: # India Celebrates Akash Missile Success as Author Honored with Padma Sri
The Story: Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled a book titled ‘The Unprecedented success story of the first indigenous supersonic multitarget surface to air missile system – Akash’ written by G Chandramouli, former project director of ‘Akash’. This event took place at the DRDO headquarters in New Delhi earlier this week. Chandramouli, an alumnus of REC Warangal from Madhira town, Khammam district, has also been awarded the ‘Padma Sri’ Award 2026 in the science and engineering category.
Key Points:
- Book release: ‘The Unprecedented success story of the first indigenous supersonic multitarget surface to air missile system – Akash’ was released by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
- Author: The book is authored by G Chandramouli, former project director ‘Akash’ & programme director, DRDL.
- Award: G Chandramouli has been selected for the ‘Padma Sri’ Award 2026 in science and engineering.
- Location: The book release occurred at the DRDO headquarters in New Delhi.
- Author Background: Chandramouli is an alumnus of REC Warangal and hails from Madhira town, Khammam district.
Key Takeaways:
- India’s commitment to indigenous defense technology is reinforced through the celebration of the Akash missile system’s success.
- The awarding of the Padma Sri to G Chandramouli highlights the importance of scientific and engineering achievements to national prestige.
- The book release serves as both a historical record and a potential source of inspiration for future generations of Indian scientists and engineers.
- The timing suggests a strategic effort to highlight advancements in defense capabilities.
Impact Analysis:
The recognition of the Akash missile system and its chief architect signals a continued investment in indigenous defense capabilities. This has several potential impacts:
- Defense Self-Reliance: Promotes the “Make in India” initiative in the defense sector, reducing reliance on foreign arms imports.
- Technological Advancement: Encourages further innovation and development of advanced missile systems and related technologies.
- National Security: Strengthens India’s defense posture and provides a deterrent against potential threats.
- International Relations: Demonstrates India’s growing technological prowess and strengthens its position in global security discussions.