Vikram Sarabhai Biography - Early Life, Achievements, Contributions to Indian Space Program

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Vikram Sarabhai, a renowned scientist, made a lasting impact on India’s scientific scene by spearheading space research. Known as the “Father of the Indian Space Program,” his valuable contributions have instilled a deep appreciation for science and the scientific community among Indians. Sarabhai’s life was a mix of a strong love for science and a lasting interest in diverse fields like dance, theatre, and music. His exceptional intellect distinguished him as one of the country’s most remarkable scientific minds. He played a crucial role in leading the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC) and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), two of India’s top scientific institutions. This information is useful for those preparing for the UPSC Exam’s Science & Technology section, offering insights into India’s space research and Vikram Sarabhai’s outstanding contributions.

The Early Years of Vikram Sarabhai

family, known for their involvement in industry and active participation in the Indian Independence movement.
His parents, Ambalal Sarabhai and Sarladevi Sarabhai, created a cultured and enlightened environment at home, emphasizing the importance of education.
The Sarabhai household served as a gathering place for various notable individuals, including political leaders, freedom fighters, and social workers. Guests included Mahatma Gandhi, Rabindranath Tagore, J. Krishnamoorthy, Motilal Nehru, Jawaharlal Nehru, Maulana Azad, Sarojini Naidu, Srinivasa Sastri, and C.F Andrews.
Despite their affluent background, the Sarabhai family led a simple life, rejecting excessive luxury. Vikram’s parents instilled in their children values such as productivity, honesty, and leading a grounded life.
Vikram’s early education followed the Montessori system, and the Sarabhai family, followers of Jainism, actively participated in the freedom movement, including Mahatma Gandhi’s Dandi march.
Vikram’s intellectual journey commenced at the Retreat school, and after completing his Matriculation, he enrolled at Gujarat College, the first college in the state established by the British.
Vikram’s interest in Sanskrit poetry, particularly the works of Kalidasa, such as Meghadootam and Vikramorvasiyam, became a significant aspect of his educational pursuits.
For higher education, Vikram Sarabhai ventured to Cambridge University, supported by a letter of recommendation from Rabindranath Tagore.
Upon completing his undergraduate studies in Physics and Chemistry, Vikram Sarabhai returned to India and joined the Indian Institute of Science (IISC).
At IISc, he delved into research on Cosmic rays and engaged with C.V. Raman, India’s first Nobel laureate, and Homi J. Bhabha, the architect of India’s Atomic Energy Programme, both Cambridge alumni.
In August 1942, Vikram married Mrinalini Swaminathan, the sister of Captain Lakshmi Sehgal, associated with the Indian National Army led by Subhash Chandra Bose.
In 1943, Vikram conducted studies on Cosmic rays at high altitudes in Kashmir, later shifting his research focus to the “time variations of cosmic rays.”
Post the conclusion of the Second World War in 1945, he returned to Cambridge and successfully earned his Ph.D. degree.
Vikram ardently believed in India’s capacity to build, confront challenges, and solve problems using technology and science. He advocated for the replacement of outdated technologies with innovative solutions to address societal needs.
He actively promoted the idea of individuals acquiring essential skills from foreign countries and applying that knowledge within India, emphasizing the importance of technological and scientific advancement.

Early Organisational Endeavours

The early phase of the Indian Space Program faced challenges, marked by a period of unbridled enthusiasm for technology.
Vikram Sarabhai, leveraging his scientific eminence and charismatic personality, dedicated himself to enhancing the scientific mindset of the nation during this time.
Sarabhai tirelessly conducted experiments involving diverse skill combinations, novel institutional arrangements, and innovative problem-solving approaches aligned with his interests.
He advocated for the establishment of a nuclear centre for agriculture, uniting the expertise of agricultural and nuclear scientists, supported by the resources and backing of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research.
Sarabhai initiated a collaborative effort between All India Radio and ESCES (Experimental Satellite Communication Earth Station) to advance television as a mass communication tool and enhance food production.
The introduction of these groundbreaking institutional structures challenged the conventional problem-solving models prevalent in India during that period.

Swastik Mill

Employing a scientific methodology, he addressed challenges within the industry. For the oil seeds market, he conducted statistical analyses on the market prices of groundnuts and seeds, presenting the findings graphically.
Applying research methodology to scrutinize data and marketing activities proved fruitful, playing a pivotal role in fortifying the organization.
Utilizing human relations techniques, he effectively resolved conflicts between employees and management, fostering a harmonious work environment.

Sarabhai Chemicals

In the pharmaceutical landscape dominated by industry giants such as Ranbaxy, Cipla, Cadila, Glaxo, and Pfizer, Vikram initiated the establishment of Sarabhai Chemicals, a venture characterized by professional management.
Engaging in a collaborative effort with J.R. Geigy, the producer of the whitening agent ‘Tinopol,’ proved to be a lucrative move, resulting in significant profits in the market.
Sarabhai Chemicals further expanded its horizons by entering into a partnership with a German company, venturing into the manufacturing of Vitamin C

Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad

Recognizing a deficiency in effective management and skills within Indian industries, Vikram Sarabhai identified it as a significant factor contributing to the decline of both the public and private sectors. In 1956, in collaboration with Kasturbhai Lalbhai, he founded the Ahmedabad Management Association (AMA) to conduct research and provide training for organizational employees. This initiative later evolved into the esteemed Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in 1962.
To elevate the stature of the institution, Vikram forged a strategic collaboration with the renowned Cambridge University. Despite challenges from the Ford Foundation, which pursued a similar trajectory, Vikram successfully established this premier management institute. As his focus shifted towards space research, he entrusted the directorship of IIM-A to Ravi Mathai. Subsequently, Vikram assumed the role of Chairman at Homi J. Bhabha’s Atomic Energy Commission (AEC).
By 1957, Vikram had integrated into the international scientific community, forming connections with eminent scientists such as Bruno Rossi, James Van Allen, and others.

Father of Space Program of India

The initiation of India’s Space Age can be traced back to the collaboration of two influential figures who envisioned leveraging science and technology as instrumental tools for national progress. In the post-independence era, Jawaharlal Nehru, a staunch advocate of the belief that science and technology could effectively address societal and economic challenges, supported their individual pursuits in the field of science.
Nehru emphasized the significance of the space program with his statement, “There are some who question the relevance of space activities in a developing nation. To us, there is no ambiguity of purpose. We do not harbour the fantasy of competing with economically advanced nations in the exploration of the moon or the planets or manned space flight.”

Physical Research Laboratory (PRL)

Established on November 11, 1947, by Vikram Sarabhai, the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) serves as a National Research Institute dedicated to Space and Allied Sciences. Supported by the Government of India’s Department of Space and Allied Sciences, PRL engages in various research programs spanning Astronomy and Astrophysics, Atmospheric Sciences and Aeronomy, Earth Sciences, Solar System studies, and Theoretical Physics.
Situated in Ahmedabad, PRL actively conducts the PLANEX (Planet Research and Exploration Program). The institute acknowledges outstanding contributions to the realm of science and technology by presenting the ‘Hari Om Ashram Prerit Vikram Sarabhai Research Award’ and the ‘PRL Award’ to deserving scientists.

Indian National Satellite System (INSAT)

During the Bombay National Electronics Conference in 1970, Vikram Sarabhai revealed intentions to launch an Indian National Satellite. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) subsequently deployed these versatile geostationary satellites to enhance telecommunication, meteorological services, and broadcasting.
Sarabhai’s INSAT project resembled a direct-broadcast satellite designed to provide educational content to rural communities through television. Commissioned in 1983 as a collaborative effort involving the Department of Space, Department of Telecommunications, India Meteorological Department, All India Radio, and Doordarshan, it emerged as the largest domestic satellite communication system in the Asia-Pacific region.

INCOSPAR ( Indian National Committee for Space Research )

In response to the launch of Sputnik-1 by Russia in 1957, the International Council for Science established the Committee on Space Research, known as COSPAR, in 1958. In India, Homi J. Bhabha, entrusted with overseeing research for the Department of Atomic Research (DAE), initiated the creation of an Indian counterpart to COSPAR named INCOSPAR, appointing Vikram Sarabhai as its Chairman.
Under Mr. Sarabhai’s leadership, a six-day seminar on Space Science was organized at the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) in Ahmedabad.
By the early 1960s, India’s collaboration with the Soviet Union played a pivotal role in advancing Space Research through the establishment of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). This partnership also contributed to the growth of nuclear power in India, even after the Nuclear Bomb test in Pokhran, Rajasthan.
Following the demise of Homi Bhabha in 1966, Vikram Sarabhai assumed the role of Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission and Secretary of the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). In the 1960s, they jointly established four key institutions.
– Space Science and Technology Centre (SSTC)
– Experimental Satellite Communication Earth Station (ESCES, established in 1967)
– Sriharikota Base (Originally known as Sriharikota High Altitude Range, SHAR, now rebranded as Satish Dhawan Space Centre, SDSC)
– Indian Satellite System Project (ISSP)

In 1969, Vikram Sarabhai orchestrated the restructuring of ISRO, assuming oversight of all of India’s space activities. His brainchild, the Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), played a pivotal role in conducting fundamental research spanning aeronomy, cosmic rays, interplanetary space, and solar activity. The Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) served as the inception point for India’s Atomic Energy Program.
A collaborative sounding rocket program was initiated with NASA (U.S.), CNES (France), and the Hydrometeorological Services (USSR). The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), formerly under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), took charge of local rocket manufacturing.
The establishment of the Space Science and Technology Centre (SSTC) aimed at developing advanced sounding rockets, a modest satellite launcher, and expertise in aerospace engineering.

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) founded in 1969 by Vikram Sarabhai
Vision focused on the development of new launch vehicles
Successful Sounding Rocket Program in the 1960s
Launch of Satellite Launch Vehicle-3 (SLV–3) and Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV)
Further development of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV)
Headquarters located in Antariksh Bhavan, Bangalore
Brought under the Department of Space in 1972

Satellite Launch Vehicle (SLV)

SLV, a four-stage solid fuel light launcher, designed by Vikram Sarabhai
Intended to carry a payload of 40 kg and reach a height of 500m
Maiden launch occurred in 1979, realizing Sarabhai’s vision
Concluded its operational service after the final launch in 1983
Decommissioning of SLV opened avenues for the development of more sophisticated versions in subsequent years.

Augmented Satellite Launch Vehicle (ASLV)

ASLV, a five-stage solid propellant launcher, designed to accommodate a 150 kg satellite
Developed by ISRO in the late 1980s to place payloads in Geostationary Transfer Orbits
The initial launch test was conducted in 1987, followed by three more in 1988, 1992, and 1994
Two of the launches proved successful
Despite its achievements, ASLV was decommissioned at a later stage.

Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)

The introduction of PSLV marked India’s capability to deploy Indian Remote Sensing satellites into sun-synchronous orbits, a technology previously exclusive to Russia.
PSLV possesses the capacity to launch small satellites into the Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO).
Over the years, PSLV has achieved success in launching nearly 30 satellites, showcasing India’s growing proficiency in space technology.

Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle ( GSLV)

GSLV, introduced by India, is designed to launch Indian National Satellite Systems (INSAT) into Geostationary Transfer Orbit, aiming to reduce dependence on foreign rockets.
As ISRO’s heaviest rocket launch vehicle, GSLV can carry a total payload of up to 5 tons into low earth orbit.
After assuming the position of Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission, Vikram Sarabhai proposed the Agro-Industrial Complex model to enhance
India’s energy program, with support from MS Swaminathan, the pioneer of the Green Revolution in India.
Active participation in the 14th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency in Vienna showcased Sarabhai’s global involvement.
He played a crucial role in advancing indigenous nuclear technology for defence, initiating projects such as the Fast Test Reactor in Kalpakkam and the Variable Energy Cyclotron project in Calcutta.

Legacy

In honour of Vikram Sarabhai, ISRO named the lander of its second moon mission, CHANDRAYAAN, as ‘Vikram.’
The lead centre of the Indian Space Research Organisation, the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, is named after the visionary scientist.
Recognizing his contributions, the Indian Astronomical Union named a lunar crater as the “Sarabhai Crater.”
A community centre in Gujarat, named ‘Vikram A Sarabhai,’ pays tribute to his legacy.
ISRO established the Vikram Sarabhai Journalism Award in Space Technology and Research as part of the centenary year celebrations of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai.
The liquid-fueled rocket engine by ISRO, Vikas, is named in honor of Vikram Sarabhai.