Moodbidri, : ISRO has been a champion in demonstrating the use of space technology for societal good said, Space Commission chairman Dr A S Kiran Kumar.

He was speaking after inaugurating the speakers’ club of Alva’s Education Foundation at AIET Seminar Hallat Mijar.

“Space technology, as the powerful enabler, provides a variety of vital inputs for holistic and rapid development of the country. The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has launched many satellites since the space programme me was set up in 1969, for various scientific and technological applications. It includes tele-fishery, mobile communications, broadcasting, meteorological observations, telemedicine, tele-education, disaster warning, search and rescue operations,” he added.

Dr Kumar said, “Science and technology itself is neutral, but it is the person who decides whether it is used for good or bad. Taken for an example, atom power can be utilized for nuclear explosion or power plant. However, knowledge and skill you acquire needs a strong character to mould it for larger benefit of the society.”

“At this point in time, we have to significantly enhance our capacity in our basic capabilities of observation, communication and navigation,” he said. Technologies that will help in sending an Indian astronaut to space by 2022, as announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Independence Day would be another milestone in the history of ISRO,” he opined.

Presiding over the programme, AEF managing trustee Vivek Alva said, “Indian Space Research organization is people with action. Because of its multidimensional leaders, it has reached its pinnacle of success. Youths should make use of such organization for betterment of the nation.”

Alva’s college principal Dr Kurian, AIET principal Dr Peter Fernandes, Naturopathy college principal Dr Vanitha Shetty were present among others.