JAMMU, OCT 16: Emphasising India’s expanding space science capabilities and the need to nurture the next generation of scientific talent, the Central University of Jammu organised a two-day programme in honour of eminent scientist Prof. Satish Dhawan to commemorate World Space Week 2026. The programme, organised by the Satish Dhawan Centre for Space Sciences (SDCSS), brought together distinguished academicians, researchers and students to explore advancements in space technology, emerging research opportunities and career prospects in the space sector.
The programme was organised under the guidance of Prof. Sanjeev Jain, Vice Chancellor, Central University of Jammu, with the objective of strengthening scientific awareness, promoting interdisciplinary research and encouraging innovation among students and young researchers.
The inaugural ceremony, held at the Satish Dhawan Centre for Space Sciences, was attended by Prof. Sanjeev Jain as the chief guest and Prof. Kuruvilla Joseph, Distinguished Professor and Pro-Vice Chancellor of the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Department of Space, Government of India, as the guest of honour. Prof. Yashwant Singh, Registrar of the university, was also present. The programme was coordinated under the leadership of Prof. Rakesh Kumar Jha, Convener of SDCSS.
The inaugural proceedings began with a ceremonial welcome of the dignitaries, followed by a visit to the Centre’s specialised facilities, including the Central Instrumentation Facility and the Vikram Sarabhai Space Laboratory. The visit provided an overview of the infrastructure available at the Centre and its activities in scientific instrumentation, space science research and related technological fields.
Addressing the gathering, Prof. Rakesh Kumar Jha outlined the vision and objectives of the Satish Dhawan Centre for Space Sciences, highlighting its role in promoting space science education, advancing research and creating opportunities for students to engage with emerging scientific and technological developments. He emphasised the importance of an interdisciplinary approach in preparing young researchers to contribute to India’s evolving space science ecosystem.
A major highlight of the programme was the keynote lecture delivered by Prof. Kuruvilla Joseph on “India’s Space Programme: Achievements, Opportunities and the Way Forward.” The lecture examined India’s progress in space science and technology while highlighting emerging opportunities for academic institutions, researchers and aspiring professionals.
The address provided students and research scholars with insights into the development of India’s space programme, its scientific achievements and the expanding scope for academic and research engagement in the sector. It also highlighted the importance of developing scientific expertise and encouraging young minds to explore new frontiers in space research and technological innovation.
An interactive session on “Opportunities in Space Science, Technology, Research and Careers” further strengthened the academic engagement, allowing students and research scholars to discuss emerging research domains, professional pathways and future prospects in the space sector. The interaction offered participants an opportunity to understand the diverse possibilities available in space science, technology development and related research disciplines.
During the programme, Prof. Kuruvilla Joseph was felicitated in recognition of his presence and contribution to the academic event. The proceedings were anchored by Dr. Haneet Kour, Research Associate at the Satish Dhawan Centre for Space Sciences, while Mehak Mahajan, Senior Technical Assistant, Central University of Jammu, coordinated the programme.
The two-day initiative also served as a tribute to the enduring contributions of Prof. Satish Dhawan, one of India’s most distinguished pioneers in space research, whose leadership and scientific vision played a significant role in strengthening the country’s space programme. By commemorating his legacy, the university sought to inspire students and researchers to pursue scientific excellence, innovation and meaningful contributions to national research priorities.
The programme reflected the Central University of Jammu’s continued emphasis on connecting academic learning with practical scientific exposure and emerging career opportunities. Through specialised facilities, expert lectures and interactive discussions, the initiative provided a platform for knowledge exchange and encouraged greater student participation in advanced scientific research.
The initiative reinforced the university’s commitment to developing scientific talent, expanding research engagement and preparing future-ready researchers to contribute to India’s growing space science and technology capabilities.
